Magpies
March 22, Friday
The meaning of the holiday
Magpies are dedicated to the welcome of spring and the veneration of the 40 holy martyrs of Sebaste (Christian martyrs who suffered in the 4th century). However, in folk tradition, this holiday has acquired a more secular and pagan character associated with natural cycles.
Traditions and rituals
Baking larks. The main custom of this day was the baking of special shaped buns in the shape of birds - "larks". It was believed that their distribution to children and neighbors brings good luck and contributes to the onset of warm days.
Calling spring. Children and young people went out into the fields or hills, called for spring and sang songs, hoping to speed up the melting of snow and the arrival of warmth. One of these songs was: "Larks, come fly, bring the red spring!"
The magic of numbers. The number 40 had a special meaning. It was believed that on this day winter surrenders to spring, and in nature everything should happen forty times better.
Ritual games and fortune telling. Girls could tell fortunes about their betrothed or well-being by throwing bread crumbs to birds and watching their behavior.
Appeal to birds. It was believed that the birds that arrived could bring news from deceased ancestors, so they were treated with respect.