The last week before the great Easter fast is called White, after the dairy products that are eaten. The final day, today, White Shrovetide, is the most solemn and most widespread Shrovetide during the year.
Today’s Shrovetide is also called Great, Easter, Final, because it is the last winter one, and also Forgiveness Day and Proćke, because on this day, just as on Christmas, quarrels and insults are forgiven and forgotten.
The goal is to enter the Holy Fast, which begins at midnight, without sin. For, in order for God to forgive people, they must also forgive one another.
White Shrovetide is a day of masks and processions. In villages, usually young men dress up most often as heroes, women, or frightening creatures that scare children. Often in villages, just for this occasion, swings are set up and piles of straw are lit, which young men jump over.
It is believed that whoever jumps over the fire will remain healthy throughout the year. The ashes of that fire are also used to smear children.
In homes, rich tables are prepared, full of various dairy delicacies. It is not uncommon to have lunch or dinner twice.
Shrovetide is usually considered a time of unrestrained enjoyment in food, drink, and celebrations under masks, known as carnival.
At midnight begins the Great Easter Fast, seven weeks dedicated to the glorification of God and the purification of soul and body.
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Source: RTSFoto: Wikimedia Creative Commons