France: 'The Witches' Night' - April 30th


Maryline Clément 2007-05-08


On April 30th we celebrate the witches' night. On that day some people walk at night with torches in woods to see scary witches. Some others await the darkness to play some tricks on the neighbours : they move and hide objects, benches or anything they can.



On the following morning people wake and see what the "witches" have done. They look for their missing things and everything is alright.
This tradition only exists in the north east of France and has German origins. We call it "Hexenacht".


The next day, on May the first we traditionally pick the lilies of the valley.
You can find them in gardens or in woods. Flower shops also sell them with roses sometimes. They bring good luck and symbolize happiness.