Burn, Burn, Burn, Mr. Winter!

The Belgium Area Chamber of Commerce proudly brought a Luxembourg tradition — Buergbrennan — back to Belgium for the second time on Saturday, March 1.

A tradition in Luxembourgish villages, pallets, old Christmas trees and brush are gathered to build a massive bonfire with hopes of burning away winter. The most recently married couple in the town lights the fire while the residents sip mulled wine as they watch the fire grow.

Several hundred pallets, along with old wooden hands that were used as part of the Chamber float in local parades years ago, some old wreaths, and brush were contructed into a massive structure. As a large crowd gathered, the fire was lit and gradually grew into a bonfire that could likely be seen a few miles away.

Let the burning begin!

Cheers could be heard as the tree was engulfed and tumbled, followed soon by a stack of pallets that also gave way to the strong flames.

An audible “sizzle” was heard as the tree was engulfed.

The evening also included a variety of local vendors selling their homemade goods, food trucks and tasty beverages.

The Chamber thanks Buechler Farms for their assistance in once again making this a great event for our community. And we are grateful for the sponsors, who without their assistance, Buergbrennan would not have been possible:

• Lakeshore Pallet

• Plus Group Financial

• Ansay International

• Jentges Excavating & Pump Inc.

We also thank our Belgium Fire Department for their time in ensuring all of those in attendance remained safe.

The crowd says “Good Bye” to Old Man Winter.

Now here’s to hoping Belgium’s Buergbrennan did its job and winter has been put to sleep until next season.