The autumn holidays in Russia are mainly represented by the holidays of the Orthodox calendar. Somewhere they are intertwined with pagan beliefs and traditions.
And the most significant folk festivals from the so-called autumn cycle are the Nativity of the Virgin, Semenov Day, the Exaltation, the Protection of the Holy Virgin and Kuzminki. But first things first.
Calendar of Russian Autumn Holidays
- Nativity of the Virgin (8.09 items / 21.09 nov.st.). On this day, the Orthodox celebrate the birth of the Ever-Virgin Mary, the Mother of God. People have a belief that it relieves misfortunes, relieves pain, patronizes women in childbirth and brides, is the patron saint of children and all mourners.
- Semenov day (1.09 items / 14.09 nov.st.). On this day, remember Simeon Stylites - the founder of the pandemonium. It is on this day for many centuries in Russia celebrated the new year, that is the beginning of the new year. On this day, the rite of autumn was made - the onset of Indian summer, the meeting of autumn.
- Exaltation of the Cross of the Lord (14.09 st.st./27.09 nov.st.). The Twelfth Autumn Festival in honor of the Exaltation of the Life-Giving Cross, found by Equal-to-the-Apostles Elena. On this day on the churches under construction it is customary to raise crosses, and also to install roadside crosses.
- Cover of the Virgin (1.10 st.st / 14.10 nov.st.). This day is associated with the end of work in the fields and the beginning of winter. It is considered popular among the people as a girlish holiday and a cover of weddings. From this day on, all the festivities were taken to the huts, the hunters left for winter fishing.
- Kuzminki (1.11 items / 14.11 nov.st.). This autumn holiday in November is celebrated in honor of Cosmas and Damian. It is believed that on this day all the brides become full mistresses in the house. it is customary to organize "Kuzma parties" with ritual dishes and bride's bridesmaids.