St. Stephen's Day in Slovakia

St. Stephen's Day, celebrated on December 26th, is a public holiday in Slovakia, known as "Štefanský deň" or the "Second Christmas Day." It follows Christmas Day and is part of the extended Christmas holiday period.

History

The day is named after Saint Stephen, the first Christian martyr, who was stoned to death for his faith. He is mentioned in the Acts of the Apostles in the New Testament. St. Stephen's Day has been recognized and celebrated by Christians since the early days of Christianity.

Traditions

In Slovakia, traditions on St. Stephen's Day are often an extension of Christmas customs and primarily revolve around family and community.

• Church Services: Many Slovaks attend church services to honor the memory of Saint Stephen.
• Visiting Relatives: It's common for people to visit relatives they did not see on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day.
• Horse Blessing: In some rural areas, there is a tradition where horses are blessed; this stems from St. Stephen being regarded as the patron saint of horses.
• Charity: The day also embodies a spirit of giving and charity, reflecting on St. Stephen's role as a deacon who distributed food to those in need.

Activities

On St. Stephen's Day, Slovaks typically engage in various activities:

• Relaxation: After the busy preparations for Christmas, many take this day to relax with family.
• Outdoor Activities: Some might go for walks or participate in winter sports if weather permits.
• Feasting: Leftovers from the Christmas feast are often enjoyed on this day.

Overall, St. Stephen's Day serves as a continuation of festive celebrations and familial gatherings during the holiday season in Slovakia.