Post by Lunari on Aug 21, 2021 22:06:07 GMT -5
. FESTIVALS of NOISTAR .
KUPALA NOTTE
A festival which replaces Litha. On this, the longest day and shortest night of the year, everyone in Noistar dresses in white to celebrate. The celebration takes place all over Noistar with people gathering to eat, drink, dance, and be merry. The most notable activity is for female participants to make flowered wreaths, where they then toss them into the canals once the sun sets. It’s a sign of fertility, and new romantic beginnings to welcome in spring. It’s said that if a man is willing to dive into the canal and retrieve a wreath, he and the maker are meant to be--he has proved his loyalty to her, and his determination to brave the canal.
Once night falls, a large bonfire is ignited in the largest piazza (square) in Venitzia and drinking and dancing occur around it. Smaller bonfires are set throughout Noistar, and couples (both old and new) will jump over them while holding hands. If the couple's hands break apart, this is seen as a sign that their relationship will fail within the next year.
CARNEVALE
According to the locals, Carnevale started following the new formation of the republic and the victory against the old monarchy. It had started in the Creare district with celebratory song and dance, and over the years grew into a wondrous parade that travels through Noistar every year, on a chosen day in winter. It is popular for the overly colorful clothing and intricate masks that participants wear, and it's encouraged for everyone to join in on the festivities. It is a day to let loose and forget your worries until tomorrow, and most importantly, remember that life is good.