On the last evening in April, Slovenians take part in a tradition of lighting bonfires. Events are organised all over Slovenia, but few know where the roots of this tradition lie.

Ethnologist Janez Bogataj explains that lighting bonfires around 1^st May was established as a tradition long before modern times. It is related to various spring festivities, during which our ancient ancestors lit bonfires in an attempt to give strength to the sun, believing this would shorten the time needed for the sun’s rays to become stronger.

In earlier days of human existence, people were closer to one another as a community, and lighting a bonfire together united them in their desire to make the sun stronger, describes Bogataj. “When Labour movements and1st May celebrations emerged in the 2^nd half of the 19^th century, the motive was similar – the motif of fire united them in their joint struggle for workers’ rights,” adds Bogataj.

However, bonfires do not light up Slovenia only on the eve of 1^st May. Another major event is the Midsummer night, with lighting bonfires being a part of traditional celebrations on John the Baptist’s name day, i.e. 24^th June.

Tina Hacler, MMC; translated by K. Z.