Traditional Ritual “Strechanne” (Candlemas)

About event

An annual ritual marking the meeting of winter and spring, revived by residents of Novoye Polesye. In the morning, women have traditional candles blessed at church, decorate a small fir tree, and carry an icon of the Virgin Mary through the village with prayers and songs toward a protective cross. Folk ensemble “Polesye Melodies” performs ritual and spring songs. Afterwards come circle dances, games and dancing, the symbolic burning of old items in a communal fire, and traditional local food.