Holiday

[Oznell]

Traditionally, Candlemas, occurring roughly 40 days after Christmas, marks the end of "Christmastide", or the seasons of Christmas and Epiphany.

Candlemas has been observed in the past by lighting all the candles in the house!  Or at least a few, as it's a day of renewal and hope.

It was a day when weather predictions were made.  Old English song:

"If Candlemas be fair and bright,
 Come winter, have another flight;
 If Candlemas bring clouds and rain,
 Go winter, and come not again."

The tradition of Groundhog Day grew out of this!

Snowdrops, resembling little bells, are considered to be the Candlemas flower:

Crepes and pancakes are the food of Candlemas.  The French serve "Crepes de la Chandeleur" on this day:

In Mexico, Candlemas is celebrated with tamales.  And sometimes hot chocolate is served:

In general, grain-based foods are considered appropriate for the day.

Hope all who have Candlemas in their traditions have a light-filled day.

[LMinAZ]

Thank you for sharing this.  I did not know about Candlemas.  Sounds lovely, and something that I am going to add to my observances along with Epiphany.  

[rms1954]

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@LMinAZ wrote:

Thank you for sharing this.  I did not know about Candlemas.  Sounds lovely, and something that I am going to add to my observances along with Epiphany.  

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@Oznell Yes, thank you!  This is all new info.  I like it.

[twinsister]

@Oznell - thanks for sharing about this observance.  I had not heard about it.  Tomorrow is my dear mother's birthday, so I will light a candle in her memory.

[meallen616]

@Oznell,

 Thank you and,

[catter70]

I just watched Punxsutawney Phil give his prediction on PCN and he say's 6 more weeks of winter. Good call.

[Oostende]

As one who celebrates and appreciates the traditional significance of the day, I wish you a blessed and enlightened Candlemas. 

Such a beautiful day of light in the midst of winter.

[Patriot3]

@Oznell   Very interesting.......thanks for posting.

[Oznell]

Thanks, @LIG1 !