St John's Day/Day of Dew in Lithuania

St John's Day, also known as the Day of Dew (Rasos), is celebrated in Lithuania on June 24th. This day, closely linked with the midsummer solstice, is one of the most important and widely celebrated holidays in Lithuanian culture.

History and Traditions:

The origins of St John's Day date back to pre-Christian times when it was a pagan festival associated with the worship of the sun and nature. With the advent of Christianity, the day was tied to the birth of Saint John the Baptist, blending pagan customs with Christian symbolism.

Traditional celebrations include:

• Fire rituals: Bonfires are a central element, thought to purify and protect against evil spirits. People jump over fires for good luck.
• Searching for the mystical fern flower: Legend has it that this flower blooms only on this night and brings fortune to those who find it.
• Herbal customs: Gathering herbs is believed to be especially potent during this time. It is said that dew collected on St John's morning has magical healing properties.
• Folk songs and dances: The holiday is accompanied by traditional music and dance, reflecting Lithuania's rich cultural heritage.

Activities:

On this day, people across Lithuania participate in various activities such as:

• Wreath-making: Women create wreaths from flowers and herbs which are then floated down rivers; if a man retrieves a woman's wreath, romance may blossom.
• Communal feasting: Families and friends gather to share food and drink, often including traditional Lithuanian dishes.
• Nighttime festivities: As St John's Day leads into a short summer night, celebrations typically continue until dawn.

This celebration of nature, fertility, love, and community remains an enduring aspect of Lithuanian culture and identity.