Before Christmas comes the holiday of Barborky, originating from the 12th century St. Barbara’s Feast celebration. The Saint herself is said to protect people, especially soldiers and miners, from sudden death. This holiday is celebrated in a couple ways, such as removing a branch from a cherry tree, wearing veils of white, or passing a light around mining villages.
Fishy Christmas Traditions
One can often perceive the richness of any culture merely by taking the time to sit and listen to the stories it tells. Czech traditions are no exception to this, and this time of year is saturated with history, customs, and celebration of the valuable inheritances we’ve received from those that came before us. Perhaps by peeking into the traditions still celebrated in the Czech Republic and abroad, one can learn something about the history carved into its roots.
