Lichtmess#

Candlemas (Mariae Lichtmess, Mariae Reinigung), February 2nd , one of the oldest Lady Days. Candles blessed on this day (evidence of candle blessings as early as the 10th century) are meant to protect people, animals and the house from evil. In earlier times servants used to be hired and dismissed on this day ("Schlenkeltag") and payments settled, but it is also a Lostag, on which, according to popular belief, the sun makes its first big leap (end of winter) and on which conclusions on weather outlooks and the harvest were drawn. In Eisenkappel (Carinthia) on the eve of Candlemas children carry lanterns through the streets ("Kirchleintragen"), a custom which originated from a religious vow.

Literature#