Peat Cutting Monday in Falkland Islands

Peat Cutting Monday is a traditional holiday observed in the Falkland Islands, taking place on the first Monday of December. This day marks the start of the season for cutting peat, an essential activity historically for the islanders.

History and Traditions:

• Peat, decomposed plant material accumulated over thousands of years, has been an important fuel source for heating and cooking in the Falklands due to the scarcity of trees.
• The tradition dates back to early settlements when residents would allocate time to harvest this resource before the harsh South Atlantic winter set in.
• Peat blocks are cut from peat bogs, dried, and then stored for use throughout the year.

Activities on Peat Cutting Monday:

• While modern conveniences have reduced reliance on peat, some Falklanders continue to cut it out of tradition or preference for its burning qualities.
• It’s a day when families might head out together to their allocated peat bank, cut peats by hand using special spades called "tuskers," and bond over this shared labor.
• In contemporary times, it also serves as a day off from work for many residents, providing an extended weekend following the first Sunday in December.