

Thus, the Saturnalia celebrations are the source of many traditions associated with Christmas.ĭuring Saturnalia, celebrations were held not only at home but also in the temple of Saturn in Rome. Feasting, playing, gambling, singing, exchanging gifts and home decorations were some of the activities people enjoyed doing during this time. Slaves were allowed to take part in the celebration and even reversed roles with their masters. Businesses, courts, schools, and other social patterns were suspended while people spent time doing more fun activities. During the celebration period, all activities came to a halt. The festival began on December 17 of the Julian calendar, which the Romans used in those days, and initially ended on December 25, the time at which the winter solstice fell. The pagan celebration of the Roman god, Saturn, first began as a single day, but later extended to a whole week during the late Republic. “Io saturnalia” is the salutation during this season, so whenever you hear this greeting, know that there is excitement in the air and it is in honor of the god Saturn. Feasting, gifting, singing, dancing, games, gambling, decorations, and role-reversals were the usual activities, so on this day, businesses, schools, courts, and other forms of work would stop so that everyone could join in the fun it was the best of days. During this time, normal social patterns came to a halt. It was the liveliest festival of the year with sounds of merriment and preparation everywhere it would be very difficult not to take notice of the Saturnalia celebrations even if you were new to the environment, as the people took it very, very seriously.

It was the most popular holiday on the ancient Roman calendar and was derived from older farming-related rituals of midwinter and the winter solstice. The lineup includes some of the best local band as well as a variety of touring acts.ĭecember 2 - Sahara Lounge & Webberville Rd.Saturnalia, celebrated from December 17 to 23, is an ancient Roman festival and holiday held to celebrate the agricultural god Saturn. In honor of this, several bands, performers, and artists will come together to create a diverse and immersive festival experience. Traditionally Saturnalia was celebrated with public banquets, private gift giving, continual partying and a general carnival atmosphere during which social norms were upended gambling was permitted and masters provided table service for their servants.

#Saturnalia austin full
Sahara Lounge & The Electric Church have joined forces at the closing of a year full of political and social upheaval to bring love & light. Saturnalia is an ancient Roman festival in honor of Saturn and celebration of the coming winter. Baptist Churchĭecember 3 - Sahara Lounge & Webberville Road Church The lineup includes some of the best local band as well as a variety of touring acts.ĭecember 2 - Sahara Lounge & Webberville Rd. Saturnalia is an ancient Roman festival in honor of Saturn and celebration of the coming winter.
