Moldova (the Republic of) is a European Country with a complex and rich history of ethnic traditions and popular customs. Some of the holidays are celebrated throughout the country; others are designated for specific regions of even specific localitites (villages or cities). The Moldovan folklore developed within the borders of the two great regions of European civilization--the west and the southeast. Over the centuries, the Moldovan people crystallized their own popular culture. Moldovan holidays have common threads running through them. The same unity can be found in the traditions and customs throughout the country. They include Christian and non-Christian holidays, which can be traced back to a pre-Christian period of history. Since Moldovan is mainly an Eastern Orthodox country, this form of Christianity permeates the spirit of the holidays, with other themes such as the seasons or common trades being blended within religious themes. Among all of the religious holidays, Christmas and Easter are the most beloved. Another important date is December 6, when St. Nicholas brings small gifts to the young children who have polished their shoes and placed them in front of a window in their home. Christmas carols, traditional foods and decorated trees are part of the Christmas traditions. Regarding the spring customs, the PLOWMAN is a celebration of the man who first plows the fields in the spring. The first day of March is the celebration of MARTISOR (mar-tsi-shor), a day when gifts of small objects--plants, shells, flowers, animals, snowmen or tools--as well as a red and white ribbon symbolizing life and purity--are given to young girls and women. The Sunday before Easter Sunday is called FLOWERS' SUNDAY. On that day, a special celebration takes place for all who have names associated with flowers. Fish may be eaten that day. As the year moved into autumn, September 14 brought the celebration of the RISE OF THE HOLY CROSS. The harvest is celebrated by each family, as well as by the entire community. DRAGAICA is an interesting custom centered around a beauty contest. The most beautiful girl would become covered with fruit from the land. For all Moldovan celebrations, song is an essential and very appreciated component of the ceremonial activities. Love songs, lullabies and party songs are also present in the Moldovan folklore.
