This is how the old people celebrated the spring equinox - a peculiar belief about catches
The article discusses Finnish traditions and beliefs related to the spring equinox, emphasizing its cultural significance and associated weather predictions.
The article highlights the celebration of the spring equinox in Finland, which falls on March 20, when day and night are nearly equal around the globe. It mentions the precise time for the equinox in Finland is at 4:46 PM. The day is steeped in various customs and beliefs rooted in Finnish folklore, many of which are detailed on websites of organizations dedicated to Finnish cultural heritage. Local traditions offer insights into how the Finns have historically viewed the arrival of spring and its corresponding weather conditions.
Among the traditions mentioned is the belief tied to the singing of the grouse during mating season, which was thought to predict spring weather. If the mating song began before the equinox, it was a sign of potential snow, whereas if it started afterward, it forecasted better weather. Furthermore, the full moon preceding the equinox was also interpreted as a harbinger of good weather, while a full moon following the equinox could signal frost. This reflects a deep-rooted cultural understanding of nature's cycles and how they influence agricultural practices and community life.
Moreover, the spring equinox is seen as the driest day of the year, making it an ideal time for certain household activities like pest control, specifically for keeping bedbugs at bay. This belief in the equinox’s power to effectively eliminate unwanted issues illustrates a connection between seasonal changes and domestic harmony, underscoring the importance of the equinox in the Finnish cultural calendar.