Ancient Holidays

Ancient holidays have are generally far older than the modern Church or State and their connections with these entities are complicated at best. While still observed as religious holidays by some pagan communities, they are most widely celebrated as non-religious, yet joyous events that promote feelings of unity, goodwill, and wellbeing. The pagan symbolism of the holidays generally remains openly and widely acknowledged, however. The Church may have co-opted some symbols and the state may support events to mark these days, but rarely will modern religious, military, or state symbolism be a major part of the celebration. Thus, these holidays are difficult to class as either religious or secular but remain often powerful expressions of cultural pride and identity.

Sabantuy: A Global Summer Festival Celebrating Tatar Heritage

Sabantuy (Сабантуй) is the traditional Volga (Kazan) Tatar summer festival. It dates back to pre-Islamic, pagan times and originally was a ritual that asked the gods for a plentiful harvest. Today, however, the festival can best be understood as a national Tatar celebration of their culture and traditions. Sabantuy are inclusive, community-building events. In Tatarstan, […]

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