Annual bonfire kicks off holidays

By GUY PRIEL

Journal Staff Writer

NEW ULM -- Christmas carols, hot apple cider and the smell of burning wood filled the air over German Park on Saturday, as about 100 New Ulm residents gathered at the annual bonfire to kick off the Christmas season.

A path of luminarias led the way to the grandstand, where students of New Ulm Area Catholic Schools and members of St. Mary's Catholic Church sang a collection of traditional Christmas carols.

The Christmas bonfire is a German tradition, dating back to the time of the Reformation. It marks the official beginning of the holiday season throughout parts of Germany and Austria.

"It is also a great way to visit with friends and neighbors," said George Miller of rural New Ulm. "It is New Ulm's version of the Christmas sing-along. Some places have carolers who travel from house to house as their tradition. In New Ulm, this is one of ours."

Despite the chill in the air, a good time was had by those in attendance, whether children or senior citizens.

"It is actually more special when you consider that the people who come to this have to take the effort to come," Miller said. "I mean, if you leave your warm house to come to this event, you believe in traditions and enjoy spending time with neighbors."