Biike burning in Schleswig-Holstein

What does Biike mean?

“Biike” comes from the Frisian language and means sign, sea mark or fire mark. The Biike heaps, which are lit during the festival, usually consist of fir trees, brushwood and twigs.

Origin and history

The origins of the Biikebrennen go back centuries and have various meanings. First and foremost, it symbolizes the end of winter. On a spiritual level, the fire is said to drive away evil spirits and protect the community from harm. In practical terms, it marked the beginning of preparations for the coming sowing season at a time when life was still heavily influenced by agriculture.

Another meaning goes back to the former seafaring families of the region, where the wives of the sailors lit large fires to signal to their husbands at sea. These fires served as a guide, gave hope and were intended to offer protection.

Course of the festival

On the evening of February 21, locals and visitors gather at a central location - often a beach or an open area - where the Biike pile is already waiting. Musical entertainment, usually by brass bands, creates a pleasant atmosphere. In some regions, the biike burning is also started with a torch relay. After dark, the fire is traditionally lit with a speech and the phrase “Tjen di Biiki ön!” (“Light the Biike!”) is ceremoniously lit.

Culinary traditions

The Biikebrennen also includes a special dish: kale with smoked pork, boiled sausage and fried potatoes. This hearty meal is served in many inns after the fire spectacle and brings the community together in a cozy atmosphere.

Meaning and modern interpretations

While the burning of the Biike used to be strongly linked to whaling, today it primarily has an identity-forming function for the North Frisians. It strengthens the sense of togetherness and attracts numerous tourists who are enchanted by the atmosphere of this unique festival.

Since 2014, the Biikebrennen has been recognized as part of UNESCO's National Intangible Cultural Heritage, which underlines its importance and value for the region.

The Biike fires burn here on the North Sea coast

Biike fires burn in almost all places on the North Frisian coast and on the islands. A selection:

Niebüll/Deezbüll: Biikeplatz at Deezbüll Castle, from 7 p.m.

St. Peter-Ording: Erlebnis-Hus, Fritz-Wischer-Str. 1, 6 p.m. Torch relay / adventure promenade, pier forecourt, from 6:30 p.m.

Tönning: Multimar Wattforum, from 5 p.m.

Eiderstedt: Westerhever lighthouse parking lot, from 6:30 p.m.

Husum: Dockkoog, from 6 p.m.

Conclusion

The Biikebrennen is much more than just a big fire - it is a living piece of North Frisian culture. Anyone visiting Schleswig-Holstein in February should not miss this spectacular event and take the opportunity to immerse themselves in the fascinating tradition of the North.