Photos

Traditional Easter bonfire in Ostrobothnia. It is an old tradition that is still very popular. Earlier at the same day (Saturday), young children wearing witch costumes go from door to door wishing happy Easter and receive money and candy for reward.

The original meaning of the bonfire was to frighten the (real) witches that were thought of as bearers of bad luck flying around this time of year. Nowadays, it is typically merely a means to gather together and enjoy the fire. Some may even collect burnable things all winter to be able to get rid of those easily at once (no need to inform the fire department about smoky campfires during this evening).