Czechs to celebrate witch-burning night

People around the country will be celebrating “witch-burning“ night on Sunday, known as pálení čarodějnic in Czech. The ancient pagan tradition takes place every year on the night of April 30, with people marking the definitive end of winter by the burning of rag and straw witches on bonfires.

As usually, firefighters appealed to the public to act responsibly and adhere to basic safety rules. Those planning to light large bonfires have been urged to inform local fire brigades in advance.