US Belarusians celebrate the arrival of spring in New York

Over fifty Belarusians gathered in Ossining in the state of New York to take part in an ancient national rite called “Gucanna vasny”.

Photo: Serge Trigubovich

This year neither fine rain, nor remoteness from the place of residence prevented the farewell to the winter: some participants had to spend more than three hours in the car in order to get to your destination.

But the opportunity to communicate with compatriots, lead a friendly round dance, play fascinating folk games and treat yourself to popular Belarusian dishes was worth it.

Photo: Serge Trigubovich

The history of this unique holiday dates back thousands of years and originates in the pre-Christian period, when the agrarian-agricultural cult was worshiped on the territory of Belarus. Since climatic conditions did not guarantee the early onset of spring and yield, the ancestors of modern Belarusians did their best to “accelerate” the arrival of warming and the establishment of favorable sunny weather. The rite of inviting the spring not only symbolized the awakening of nature, but also encouraged young boys and girls to take a closer look at each other and think about creating a family.

Photo: Serge Trigubovich

Winter, cold, sickness and all misfortunes were symbolically embodied in the figure of the goddess Morena, which, according to established practice, was either burned or drowned in the river.

Photo: Serge Trigubovich

This time, Morena set sail on the Hudson River, and American Belarusians, calling for spring, celebrated it with a noisy feast with traditional Belarusian dishes.

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