Dragobete

Dragobete is a traditional Romanian holiday originating from Dacian times and celebrated on February, the 24th. Specifically, Dragobete was the son of Baba Dochia, which stands for the main character in the pagan myth related to spring arrival and the end of the harsh winter.

The day is particularly known as "the day when the birds are betrothed". It is around this time that the birds begin to build their nests and mate. On this day, considered locally the first day of spring, boys and girls gather vernal flowers and sing together. Maidens used to collect the snow that still lies on the ground in many villages and then melt it, using the water in magic potions throughout the rest of the year.

Those who take part in Dragobete customs are supposed to be protected from illness, especially fevers, for the rest of the year. If the weather allows, girls and boys pick snowdrops or other early spring plants for the person they are courting. In Romania, Dragobete is known as a day for lovers, rather like Valentine's Day.

It is a common belief in some parts of Romania that, during this celebration, if you step over your partner's foot, you will have the dominant role in your relationship . Dragobete customs vary from region to region. In neighbouring Bulgaria, the custom of stepping over one's partner's feet traditionally takes place during weddings, and with the same purpose, but it is not believed to be connected to Dragobete.

In the past, the community was very interested in what happens on this day because, so its members could find out what will go autumn weddings, writes Thursday. In the afternoon, both those who were part of a couple and the lonely, party, playing or singing, because it was believed that young people who have spent Valentine's Day or those who have not seen a single sex opposite will not find the pair that year.

In Romanian tradition, Dragobete’s mark the beginning of spring and is held on the eve of March 1, often on February 24. February 24 was not chosen by chance, marking the beginning of the agricultural year. When all nature is reborn, birds nests and seeks after some popular beliefs, out of the cave bear. With nature, revive and love and Dragobete mark on the whole blowing celebrating nature and renewal preparing for spring