December 21: Feast of Saint Julian, folk signs and what not to do.

According to ТСН: Tomorrow, December 21, in the Orthodox calendar is the feast day of Saint Julian the Martyr. Julian was born in the 1st-2nd century (exact date unknown) in Nicomedia (modern Izmit, Turkey) or Antioch, depending on the sources. Her parents were wealthy, but Julian chose the Christian faith, succumbing to the influence of her spiritual calling. By adhering to Christian principles, she remained faithful to her belief despite persecution from pagans.

Julian was cruelly tortured for refusing to sacrifice to pagan gods. According to legend, she was tortured, yet she preserved her chastity and strong faith. Various sources note that Julian was executed by sword or killed in other ways; legends assert that even in the face of death, she remained unyielding.

Signs for December 21

• If December 21 is warm and snowless, it indicates a late, mild winter.

• Wind from the north promises a cold and snowy winter.

• When birds fly low, snow or frost will come soon.

What not to do tomorrow

According to folk beliefs, it is better to avoid working with sharp objects today and not engage in spinning or weaving. It is believed that unfinished important matters by this day, such as an unresolved debt, can bring troubles, so it is advisable to complete them in advance.

What can be done tomorrow

On this day, preparations for Christmas, celebrated on December 25, continued. People feared misfortunes and malevolent intentions from others, so they placed silver items, such as small silver spoons, in a place of honor. It was believed that this would avert evil and cause ill-intentioned people to steer clear of the home.

The feast day of Saint Julian the Martyr has become an important moment for believers who honor her act of courage and faith. The signs and rituals associated with this day help people preserve traditions and strengthen their connection with cultural heritage. Attention to folk customs gives this date particular significance, motivating the inheritance of traditions from generation to generation.