Mountain bonfires | Summer solstice in the Tiroler Zugspitz Arena

Mountains on fire

SUMMER SOLSTICE BONFIRES

Year after year, the mountains are set ablaze during the time of the summer solstice – for good reason: It’s a true event highlight in the region when the longest day and the shortest night of the year are celebrated with spectacular and fiery designs. Every year approximately on the third Saturday in June, the valley basin of Ehrwald-Lermoos-Biberwier is illuminated by a special kind of light – if the weather allows it. Don’t miss out on taking part in this unique and breathtaking event on the Tyrolean side of the Zugspitze!

By the way: In 2010, the mountain bonfires of the Tiroler Zugspitz Arena were declared immaterial UNESCO World Cultural Heritage.

Date: June 21, 2025 at 22:00
Duration: approx. 2 hours
Alternative date: June 28, 2025

Interesting facts about the “mountains on fire” event

Countless creative designs

Even before the sun sets, numerous visitors eagerly anticipate the bright-orange fire sculptures that are about to illuminate the mountains – among them the Wetterstein range, the Mieming range and the Lechtal Alps. The images portrayed by the fiery masterpieces are diverse, and they surprise visitors year after year. The designs range from symbols from mythology and spirituality to current topics. Glowing crystals, stags made of fire or luminous hearts are only some of the many impressive creations that have the audience in awe every year.

Preparations for the Tyrolean solstice bonfires

The planning process of the solstice fires in Ehrwald starts several months ahead of the actual event. More than 300 so-called “mountain firers” have made it their mission to ensure that the breathtaking masterpieces illuminate the mountains right on time. This requires taking thorough measurements of the mountain faces, based on which the motives of the spectacular fire sculptures are designed.

Afterwards, up to 700 bags – filled with sawdust and rapeseed oil – are transported onto the mountains and then neatly arranged to form an image. Anchoring them in the steep terrain at 2,000 metres above sea level as well as descending at night requires extensive mountaineering experience and climbing skills. In total, about 10,000 individual fires are lit.

By the way: Bonfires during summer solstice have their origin in an old tradition that dates back to the 14^th century. At the time, the fires were believed to protect people from demons and evil spirits.

Getting here and the best viewing locations

Please note the following information:

Respect for the tradition: Be aware of the cultural significance of the mountain fire and experience this unique event with respect.
Nature conservation: Be careful not to leave any garbage behind and use the marked paths to protect the flora and landscape.
- For a good view, visitors are best advised to use the footpaths in the moss - from there you can admire the entire valley basin
Respect agriculture: Do not disturb farmland or animals and stay away from fields to protect local agriculture.
Parking: Only park in the designated parking areas and take care not to block access roads or important traffic routes. Parking on agricultural land is prohibited.
Camping is only permitted in the designated camping areas.