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The Magical Mystique of Walpurgisnacht
Not yet published by Vanessa Boiser
Country: Germany 
The Experience
Mystery, magic, witches and warlocks, broomsticks and spells: Walpurgisnacht is all about these mystical beings. Walpurgisnacht simply means “Witches Night”. It is celebrated not only in Germany but also in Sweden, Finland and Czech Republic as well. It started during the medieval period and is celebrated on the eve of May Day when it is believed that the magical powers or witches and warlocks are at their peak. Before the stroke of midnight, people then were already frightened to leave the safety of their houses. Rituals were performed and garlands are hung on their doors to warn evil spirits away.
Today, it is already a different night. People are more in tuned with what they want. People who have already participated in Walpurgisnacht have become more opened to other unconventional possibilities. Just like the Carnival festivities in Rio and Mardi Gras in New Orleans, Walpurgisnacht exuded the same air of free-spiritedness. Everyone came in different elaborate and intricate costumes and make-ups. For one carefree night they believed that they were someone else other than themselves. . People from all over Europe and even some as far as Asia and North America came and gathered to experience a once in a lifetime anonymity.
Witches Night is known for wild fire dances. A big bon fire is lit from before midnight until the sun showed its first ray on the horizon. The eve of May Day had always presented confusing climate and weather. It can be hot and humid at one time or raining hail with a gust of wind at another. It is the perfect setting for such festivities. It is actually because of these unexplained weather changes that added to the mystery of Walpurgisnacht and May Day eve.
Witches Night in Germany is celebrated at Northern Germany’s highest peak, Brocken, along the Harz mountain range. It is exactly when spring is just about to greet everyone with scent of green all over that resembles life. The ride going to Brocken was already an adventure itself. During winter, the view is spectacular. Snow capped mountains with a bit of green every now and then will satisfy your love for nature. In summer and spring time, alpine trees and lush array of diverse shrubs will keep you from sleeping throughout the 81 mile train ride.
Today, it is already a different night. People are more in tuned with what they want. People who have already participated in Walpurgisnacht have become more opened to other unconventional possibilities. Just like the Carnival festivities in Rio and Mardi Gras in New Orleans, Walpurgisnacht exuded the same air of free-spiritedness. Everyone came in different elaborate and intricate costumes and make-ups. For one carefree night they believed that they were someone else other than themselves. . People from all over Europe and even some as far as Asia and North America came and gathered to experience a once in a lifetime anonymity.
Witches Night is known for wild fire dances. A big bon fire is lit from before midnight until the sun showed its first ray on the horizon. The eve of May Day had always presented confusing climate and weather. It can be hot and humid at one time or raining hail with a gust of wind at another. It is the perfect setting for such festivities. It is actually because of these unexplained weather changes that added to the mystery of Walpurgisnacht and May Day eve.
Witches Night in Germany is celebrated at Northern Germany’s highest peak, Brocken, along the Harz mountain range. It is exactly when spring is just about to greet everyone with scent of green all over that resembles life. The ride going to Brocken was already an adventure itself. During winter, the view is spectacular. Snow capped mountains with a bit of green every now and then will satisfy your love for nature. In summer and spring time, alpine trees and lush array of diverse shrubs will keep you from sleeping throughout the 81 mile train ride.
When to Go
If you are the free-spirited type and wants to go for a once in a life time celebration of spirits and mystical being, then the Witches Night is the night for you. It is celebrated during springtime, exactly on the eve of May Day, 30th of April. People from all over Europe and the western region frequent Brocken during this time and you will always be welcomed with a smile and warm salutations. As described, the weather during this time is very unpredictable. It is also the best time to bring along friends who share your passion in mystery and adventure. Just remember a Light jacket and umbrella will always come in handy.
Winter time is also a good time to visit not only Brocken but the rest of northern Germany as well. The temperature seldom reaches below zero degrees and the view is breath taking. Monasteries are open for educational tours of medieval times and breweries welcome tourists who want to actually see how beer is made. A drink or two to warm your body and uplift your spirit can also be arranged. Don’t be put off by the idea of visiting monasteries. You might think that this activity is a little out of your interest but there are a lot to see and learn than meets the eye. Monastery hopping is guaranteed to be anything but boring!
Winter time is also a good time to visit not only Brocken but the rest of northern Germany as well. The temperature seldom reaches below zero degrees and the view is breath taking. Monasteries are open for educational tours of medieval times and breweries welcome tourists who want to actually see how beer is made. A drink or two to warm your body and uplift your spirit can also be arranged. Don’t be put off by the idea of visiting monasteries. You might think that this activity is a little out of your interest but there are a lot to see and learn than meets the eye. Monastery hopping is guaranteed to be anything but boring!
Odds n' Ends
Northern Germany is one of the most captivating places in the country. Aside from hundred-year old monasteries, this part of the country also offers an impressive line up of castles to visit. Jewellery shops, museums and small market stalls with souvenirs are all added attractions to tourists and locals alike. Activities such as clock making and glass blowing will also make your visit to this part of the country more memorable and worthwhile.
Like travelling in most European cities, you can go around Northern Germany by train and car rentals. You do not have to worry about purchasing tickets because there are several ways to buy them. There are traditional manned-booths or you can choose to book your tickets online. There are even modern ticket vending machines where you can also get tips on the fastest and shortest route possible.
About recharging your laptops, mobile phones, cameras and other must-bring gadgets, electric plugs are what we call Schuko and electric voltage runs on 230v. It is safer to bring universal socket converter just to make sure that you have everything covered.
Like travelling in most European cities, you can go around Northern Germany by train and car rentals. You do not have to worry about purchasing tickets because there are several ways to buy them. There are traditional manned-booths or you can choose to book your tickets online. There are even modern ticket vending machines where you can also get tips on the fastest and shortest route possible.
About recharging your laptops, mobile phones, cameras and other must-bring gadgets, electric plugs are what we call Schuko and electric voltage runs on 230v. It is safer to bring universal socket converter just to make sure that you have everything covered.
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