Michaelmas

Michaelmas is celebrated in honor of the archangels Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael. The date of September 29 is special – it is important to dedicate this day to good deeds, creativity, and in the evening, be sure to invite friends for dinner, treating them with fresh bread and roast goose. It is also the season for picking blackberries.

History

The holiday is celebrated by the Roman Catholic and Anglican Churches, since the 5th century. On this day, the basilica in honor of the angel Michael was solemnly opened on Via Salaria (near Rome). The event took place on September 29, and since then it has been celebrated annually.

Interesting Facts

• During the Middle Ages, Michaelmas was revered as a sacred holiday, but in the 18th century, the tradition was forgotten.
• In some countries, like Ireland and England, September 29 marked the end of the harvest, as well as the end of the quarter, when financial and judicial issues were resolved.
• On this day, it is necessary to collect and eat all the blackberries; this symbolizes the complete victory over evil and the devil. According to legend, the archangel Michael expelled the devil from heaven, and he ended up in a blackberry bush.
• On September 29, the Irish make a pilgrimage to the holy wells to drink holy water.

How to Take Part

Prepare for the holiday by roasting a goose and cooking vegetables and delicious side dishes. Collect blackberries with the whole family, eat them with cookies, or make dessert. Do good deeds and let this tradition be not just for one day, but for life. Watch the weather on this day: if it’s clear, expect two winters this year.

When is Michaelmas in 2024?

Michaelmas is observed on September 29 each year.

Observations