Furinalia

Mudens 14

Observed by: Commonplace, though particularly in wine-growing regions

The high holy day of Furinus, Furinalia is a day of revelry, dance and, most importantly, wanton drunkenness. In regions where it is celebrated, masters are expected to give their servants a day and a half free of work (Furinalia itself to celebrate and the first half of the following day to recuperate). Traditionally, a goat is sacrificed by a group of women tearing it limb from limb (symbolizing the defeat of wickedness), though more recently many regions prefer to ceremonially slaughter the goat, which becomes the centerpiece of an evening feast. Bread and wine are also consumed in copious amounts during these feasts. In some areas, a local simpleton or fool is crowned "King of the Day" and treated as royalty by the revelers. In more conservative regions, the day is celebrated only by having mutton, bread and wine at an evening meal.