Holidays of the Slavs - Maly Ovsen (Old Slavic New Year)

As you know, in former times the Slavs had many intricate holidays, mainly associated with events in nature. Thus, there was a holiday called Small Ovsen (New Year), which was celebrated in March. The celebration date was moved from March 1 (old style) to March 14 (new style). It is quite symbolic that the Slavs began the year in the spring, when the whole earth awakens. At this time of year, not only nature wakes up, but all peasants begin to actively prepare for spring work. Little Ovsen was celebrated very widely, with festivities, chants and round dances. Ovsen was popularly considered the brother of Kolyada. He cleared the way for people from the winter evil spirits, and also began not only the day, but also the whole year, full of troubles. There was a popular belief that Ovsen came riding on a horse and brought the New Year with him. They greeted him with porridge, which was certainly prepared at night. While the food was being prepared in the oven, the Slavs whispered conspiracies to attract a rich harvest. It was a good sign if the porridge was a success. This meant that Ovsen accepted the gift and good luck would come to the owners of the house. In 325, at the Ecumenical Council, it was decided to move the celebration from spring to autumn (the date was set for September 1). Since the name “Autumn” itself is consonant with the word “autumn,” it becomes clear why it was chosen to celebrate it at this time of year. Historians know that in different areas people celebrated this day in different ways. Some Slavs, out of old habit, celebrated the New Year twice, in September and March. After the adoption of Christianity in Rus', Little Ovsen turned into a day of remembrance of the Venerable Martyr Evdokia, and March 14 began to be called the day of Avdotya Plyushchikha. She personified spring and had the power to awaken water and earth from winter sleep. It is known that in our time we celebrate the New Year in winter thanks to the decree of Peter the Great (since 1699). The tradition of celebrating the New Year in January has been taking root for a very long time. But the most popular and ancient day of celebration remains March 14th.