How Old Russian Folklore Used Onions and Roosters to Predict Winter's Fate
Sylvester's Day in 2026: Folk Celebrations on January 15
In 2026, the traditional folk feast of Sylvester's Day falls on January 15 (January 2 in the Old Style). In the Orthodox Church calendar, this date honors the memory of Saint Sylvester, Pope of Rome.
Traditions
In old Russia, women practiced divination with onions on Sylvester's Day. They would place 12 onion bulbs on the table, sprinkle them with salt, and leave them overnight. The next morning, the number of damp bulbs foretold how many rainy months the coming year would bring.
This day was also believed to be the right time to ward off fevers through special incantations.
January 15 is also known in folk tradition as Rooster and Hen Day. On this day, people would clean their chicken coops and hang protective charms—black stones with holes—to shield their poultry from evil spirits.
Folk Omens
- If clouds appear in the evening or a rooster crows unexpectedly, the weather will soon change.
- If a rooster crows earlier than usual, or if geese and ducks start rummaging in the snow, a thaw is on the way.
- If a magpie tries to take shelter in houses, a blizzard is coming.
- If hens perch earlier than usual, a cold snap is near.
- Eating meat—especially poultry—on this day is said to bring misfortune.
Based on materials from my-calend.ru.
