Edited by ARR S.A. | Silesia
St. Lawrence Huda
Country: Poland
Region: Silesia
Type of inspiration: Cultural customs
Inspiracja
Traditionally, Lawrence Huda is celebrated on 9 August on the eve of St Lawrence's Day. Preparations for the festivities begin a few days beforehand, when wooden materials are gathered from which tall structures of over 20 metres are then built. Inside the so-called huda, branches of fir, spruce and juniper are placed, and the whole is decorated with colourful ribbons and flowers. Sometimes a puppet resembling the figure of St Lawrence is also hung. Huda is set up in the central part of the village and the men are responsible for its construction.
The start of the ritual begins just before sunset and is kicked off by performances by regional folk bands. The huda is usually set on fire by the mayor or other guest of honour, and then the party begins, which lasts until the huda burns out. The celebration involves singing traditional regional songs, dancing and feasting.
According to custom, the huda cannot be extinguished. It has to burn itself out, which means that the celebrations are over.
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