What holiday is Dec 28? December 28th is celebrated as Saint Stephen’s Day in many countries, particularly in Ireland, the United Kingdom, and other parts of Europe. This holiday commemorates the feast day of Saint Stephen, who is considered the first Christian martyr. It is a day of reflection and remembrance, as well as a time for family gatherings and festive activities.
The origins of Saint Stephen’s Day can be traced back to the early Christian church. According to the Bible, Saint Stephen was a deacon who was stoned to death by Jewish leaders for his faith in Jesus Christ. His martyrdom is seen as a pivotal moment in the early Christian movement, and he is revered as a symbol of courage and faith.
In Ireland, Saint Stephen’s Day is a public holiday and is often celebrated with traditional Irish customs. One of the most famous customs is the “Wren Boys,” where young boys dressed in costumes made from rags and adorned with a fake wren (a small bird) on their heads, go door-to-door collecting money for the “Wren Boys’ Dance.” This dance is a traditional Irish folk dance that has been performed for centuries.
Another popular tradition on Saint Stephen’s Day is the “Wassailing,” which is a festive celebration that involves singing, dancing, and feasting. It is believed that the Wassailing brings good luck and protection for the coming year.
In the United Kingdom, Saint Stephen’s Day is also known as Boxing Day, which is the day after Christmas. While Boxing Day has its own set of customs, such as visiting family and giving gifts to the poor, it is also celebrated with the tradition of “wassailing” and the “Wren Boys.”
In other parts of Europe, Saint Stephen’s Day is celebrated with various customs and festivities. In Hungary, it is known as “Szenteste,” and is marked by a special mass and the distribution of “szt.este” cookies. In Slovakia, it is called “Svätý Štefan” and is celebrated with a feast and the lighting of candles.
Despite the differences in customs and traditions, Saint Stephen’s Day is a holiday that brings people together to honor the memory of a brave and faithful man who laid the foundation for the Christian faith. It is a time for reflection, gratitude, and the strengthening of family bonds.
