Happy April Fools' Day! We didn't think we could top the weather pranking us with snow today, so here is an April Fools' Day rhyme.
#calendarcustoms #munfla

A poem from St. John's about Valentine's Day: "My heart is like a cabbage, It is nearly broken in two, The leaves I give to others, But I give the heart to you."

An account from St.John's, Newfoundland and Labrador on Valentine's Day traditions: "On Valentine's Day we used to buy cards and send them to our friends. We wouldn't sign our name, just our initials or sometimes just a question mark and let our friends guess who was sending them a card."

An account from Buchans, Newfoundland and Labrador on Valentine's Day traditions: " The technique of delivering [Valentine's] cards is what I wish to call attention to. The person who brings them, opens the door and throws the cards haphazardly into the porch, making sure to slam the door on his retreat. This is to make sure that the residents know that cards have been left there. The person bringing the cards is not to be seen for some unknown reason."

Happy Valentine's Day!
Here are some ways people celebrated as recorded in our archive. We included our favourite Valentine's Day poem which we dedicate to you, dear folklore enthusiasts! You will always have our (cabbage) hearts.
#CalendarCustoms #MUNFLA

February 2nd: Candlemas Day or Groundhog Day

If Candlemas Day be fair and fine, the worst of the winter is left behind. If Candlemas Day be dark and dull, the worst of the winter is yet to come.

The most important day with regards to customs is the second of February. It is called Candlemas Day, and celebrates the bringing of the Christ Child to the priest at the Temple, a Jewish custom. This day is known as the Feast of Candles. My parents believe church candles are blessed on this day. The belief is known, at least, in our home, that all Christmas decorations must be removed on this day if not before, as Lent is coming soon. It was believed to constitute bad luck to leave anything up longer.

In the U.S. this day is known as Groundhog Day. But here in Newfoundland, we also use it as a prediction for the winter weather. I've always heard that a fine February 2nd meant the rest of the winter would be easy, but a bad day would mean the worst of the winter is to come.

It's February 2nd, also known as Candlemas Day or Groundhog Day. It can be a day of celebration and also a day to predict how the rest of the winter will go. In most of NL, we're having a snowstorm today! What is the weather like where you are? Do you have any winter predictions? #calendarcustoms

Something for #MayDay
Bringing in the #May.
Illumination by #Simonbening from an early #16thC #bookofhours
BSB CLM 28346

#calendarcustoms #seasonalcustoms #otd #onthisday #earlymodern

I went wassailing and it was brilliant! 🌳🍏🎶

#wassailing #wassail #folklore #folktraditions #calendarcustoms