How to say the winter goodbye? Luxembourg has its own answer and beloved custom: Buergbrennen. Each year on the Sunday after carnival people come together to watch a bonfire and enjoy “Mettwurscht”, “Ierzebulli” (sausage and pea soup) and mulled wine.

Despite the name, the Luxembourgers do not set fire to a castle. In the bonfire – made of old Christmas trees and wooden pallets – a cross plus an unfortunate straw man (possibly a symbol for the end of carnival) are lit.

What to prepare for Buergbrennen?

Usually, the local scouts or fire brigade organize the festival. They collect the old Christmas trees and wooden pallets for the construction. Traditionally, a cross is placed in the bonfire. Other villages build a construction that resembles an actual castle. The preparation does not end there. At the “Buergplatz” everyone will gather to watch the spectacle and enjoy hot food and drinks. A popular dish is of course Mettwurscht and Ierzebulli.

Some villages might also have a torchlight procession to the bonfire. In other places, a newly wed couple sets the “Buerg” on fire.

The end of winter is here

Buergbrennen or “Fête des Brandons” is observed in Luxembourg, as well as a few places in France and the German borderland (Eifel).

The festival at the beginning of lent represents the end of winter. Legend has it that the quality of the fire will determine the beginning of summer.

The word “Buerg”, according to some experts, has nothing to do with today’s meaning of the word (ie. castle). The latin “comburo” (=to burn) is a suspect for the origin. This would link Buergbrennen to the New-Year celebrations in the antique Rome.

Buergbrennen is next Sunday! So enjoy the fine tradition around the warming bonfire. Finally, the end of winter is here. On that note: Have a wonderful springtime!

The Prisma team has developed many growth strategies over many years of project management experience. Today we share our focus tips and how to become a great team.

The Prisma focus tips

Do you have problems keeping your focus? Here our tips on how to stay focused.

• Book a time slot for your task
• Disable notifications on your phone and for emails
• Get enough sleep
• Take small breaks for your eyes
• Time your ability to focus to develop better schedules

A good environment is key

• When one task is done, get in a little exercise
• Communicate to your team that you need to concentrate on a task
• Try meditation before starting your workday
• Plan more time for a task to get into the flow
• Eat healthy snacks

How to be teamtastic?

Great teams are not a given. They are formed over time and with good communication. Remember:

• Together is better than alone
• Empower each other
• Active listeners only
• Remember that motivation grows in good environments

Team up with Prisma for your financial document production! Contact us.

Did you know that we translate into Japanese? Japan or 日本 (Nihon) also known as the country of the rising sun. The island nation is home to a wonderful language and vibrant culture.

Here are some facts that you might not know about Japanese:

• Speakers worldwide: 125 million
• Descended from: Proto-Japonic
• Three writing systems are used
• The language reflects the hierarchical nature of the society in Japan
• Kawaii means the concept of cuteness – and kawaii (cute) handwriting exists

• Although the word ‘Bon-sai’ is Japanese, the art it describes originated in the Chinese empire
• The language uses Chinese characters, however the language isn’t based on Chinese
• There are no articles or plurals
• It is a very fast language
• Thank you means: Arigatō

Translation services at Prisma

At Prisma, you have a dedicated project manager that guides you in every translation project. Are you looking for advice? Don’t hesitate to ask.

We translate into many languages worldwide with experienced financial translators and proof-checkers. A quality check ensures that your high expectations are met. Are you looking for a financial translation into Japanese or other languages? Contact us