Edited by IPC Prešov | Košice and Žilina Regions
Midsummer Night
Country: Slovakia
Region: Košice Region
Type of inspiration: Legends
Inspiracja
There is probably no other night that has as much magic as the one from 23 to 24 June. Midsummer Night is associated with many legends, superstitions, traditions and even love magic. Our ancestors believed in it and were convinced that the herbs gathered on this night had strong, magical powers. Girls collected them and wove them into wreaths. Each wreath was to contain nine herbs, the most famous being St John's Wort, called the blood of St John, Motherwort, also known as St John's love, and then wormwood, or St John's waist. Other herbs varied by region. The wreath was to reveal the groom to the girl.
But what was even more important than herbs? Fire. The latter symbolized the sun. It was gradually losing power after reaching its highest point in the sky, and people wanted to help it while securing its power for themselves. By skipping the fire, man ritually purified himself, gave himself strength and especially courage, while at the same time unleashing his life-giving capacity and passion.
Today, folklore festivals full of folk music, dance, crafts, singing and food are held annually at the Spišské salaš in Spišské Podhradí. A fair is held here, at which craftsmen from the region present themselves. In many cases, visitors to folklore festivals can not only dance, but also try their hand at making classic traditional items. Families with children are not forgotten either, for whom many surprises have been prepared. The festival is also associated with a tasting of traditional dishes. Of course, there is also the Midsummer bonfires...
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