May 5th Celebration Guidelines: Permissible and Prohibited Activities
Let's Talk About May 5th: It's Not Just St. Luke's Day, It's Also Onion Day
On the same calendar day that Orthodox Christians celebrate the apostle and evangelist Luke, a distinct celebration occurs in folk lore - Onion Day.
Saint Luke is known for his role as an evangelist and author of the Acts of the Apostles, but he is also considered the first icon painter. However, May 5th is called Onion Day due to the various onion-related customs and traditions associated with this day.
Make the Most of Onion Day!
For a long and healthy life, enjoy some fresh greens or spring onions on May 5th. In the past, people would consume a small onion, releasing its skin to the wind, believing it would dispel all misfortunes. This day is also an excellent opportunity for gardeners to plant their onion seedlings if they haven't already done so during the winter.
prophetic dreams on the night of May 5th can come true if shared with loved ones. For a memorable family gathering, indulge in potato and onion pie.
Onion Day: The Do's and Don'ts
Stay away from the forest on May 5th, especially alone, to avoid getting lost. A messy home on this day might predict future family troubles for the lazy. Touching spider webs is considered unlucky, so best to leave them be.
Avoid making pancakes on Onion Day as it's said to cause constant arguments in the home. Pay attention to the weather on May 5th - clear skies signal the start of planting season, while thunderstorms might predict a bountiful harvest.
Note: A Misunderstanding about Onion Day
The popular belief that May 5th is referred to as Onion Day in the Orthodox Christian or Slavic folk calendars is not accurate. May 5th has no specific onion-related customs or superstitions in mainstream Orthodox or Slavic folklore.
On the other hand, Orthodox Easter, which occasionally falls on May 5th, has its own set of unique traditions and superstitions. These include midnight services, feasting, blessing of food, egg games, and protective customs using blessed eggs or bread.
Embrace the culinary aspects of Onion Day by savoring fresh greens or spring onions, symbolizing a long and healthy life. Moreover, for those with a green thumb, Onion Day provides the perfect opportunity to plant home-grown onion seedlings in the garden, enhancing your home-and-garden lifestyle.
