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Date: March 14th
History and Traditions: Summer Day, traditionally known as "Dita e Verës" in Albanian, has its roots in pagan times and is considered one of the oldest festivals in Albania. It originates from the end of the 19th century in the central city of Elbasan but has since become a national holiday celebrated across the country.
The day marks the end of winter, the rejuvenation of spirit, and the rebirth of nature. It is closely associated with ancient rituals intended to bring good luck and prosperity for the coming year. One of the traditional symbols is the "verore," a handmade doll that represents beauty and fertility, crafted from natural materials such as wool or corn leaves.
What People Do: On Summer Day, cities come alive with festive activities, including public concerts, fairs, and traditional dance performances. The streets are decorated with red and white ornaments reflecting Albanian culture.
Families gather to celebrate with special foods like "ballokume," a sweet biscuit made from cornflour, butter, sugar, and eggs that's particularly associated with Elbasan. The day is also an opportunity for people to enjoy nature by going on picnics or walks in the countryside.
Children participate by crafting their verore dolls and giving them as gifts or displaying them in their homes. Additionally, individuals may engage in spring cleaning both as a practical activity and symbolic gesture to welcome the new season.
In summary, Summer Day is a festive occasion that combines historical traditions with contemporary celebrations to mark an important seasonal transition in Albanian culture.
