February 1: Makariy the Spring Harbinger and clothing prohibitions

In the folk calendar, February 1 is celebrated as the day of Makariy the Spring Harbinger, and Orthodox Christians commemorate Saint Macarius the Great. This day is rich in omens related to weather prediction and wishes for prosperity.

Saint Macarius the Great, a 4th-century ascetic, left behind valuable spiritual works dedicated to inner life and the interpretation of Scripture.

The nickname «Spring Harbinger» points to the main feature of this day: based on its weather, our ancestors tried to predict when spring would come. A clear and sunny day promised quick warming, while a blizzard foretold similar weather for Maslenitsa (Shrovetide). Moreover, the weather on February 1 was considered an indicator of the climate for the entire month of February. Interestingly, severe cold on this day, paradoxically, could herald a favorable summer.

According to folk beliefs, it was undesirable to let strangers into the house so as not to «carry away» happiness and luck. There were also certain prohibitions regarding clothing; on this day, it was better to avoid black and dark clothing, as it could attract misfortune. Cutting hair, especially children«s, was considered undesirable, as it could affect fate and luck. Quarreling on the day of Makariy the Spring Harbinger was strictly forbidden so as not to scare away the approach of spring.