Kupala Night

The earliest mention of Kupala Night appears in the Volyn Chronicle. This ancient celebration has deep roots in Slavic tradition and predates the Christianisation of Kievan Rus. Pagan communities honoured the summer solstice and held water in great reverence, which is why the festivities of Kupala Night traditionally take place near rivers, lakes, or other bodies of water.

The main figures of the celebration are Kupalo and Marena, who symbolise the struggle between good and evil. Marena embodies winter, death, and illness, while Kupalo is regarded as the patron of marriage and family continuity. During the rituals, a large Kupalo bonfire was lit. It was one of the main symbols of the holiday. People gathered around the fire, sang songs, danced in circles, and celebrated until dawn.