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Io Saturnalia: Merry Christmas the Roman Way

Discover this mid-winter week-long festival of the Saturnalia, a party in which the ‘serious was barred’. Saturnalia honoured the god Saturn and remembered his Golden Age on Earth when no one had to work. So parties, good food, silly games such as Forfeits, singing and gambling – even for slaves - were the order of the week. Accredited Lecturer Gillian Howell highlights how holly wreaths, presents, candles, even cheap party hats at the main meal all originate from this pre-Christmas Christmastime festival! You’ll have plenty to fascinating and fun facts chat about over the Christmas dinner!

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Comments

What a great way to share knowledge ; really enjoyed the lively delivery .

Tricia Law Tue, 14/12/2021 - 08:32 Permalink

Really interesting talk. I learned something today! Life doesn’t change much. Very good lecturer

Jean Hawke Tue, 14/12/2021 - 08:28 Permalink

What an infectious, interesting and informative insight into our traditions.
Thank you.

Heather Tue, 14/12/2021 - 08:28 Permalink

What a great and fun start to the day!

Zoe Bratis Tue, 14/12/2021 - 08:15 Permalink

Yo Saturnalia , is it too early for a mince pie? Very interesting to go back a bit further than the traditional Victorian Christmas

Anne Harris Tue, 14/12/2021 - 08:14 Permalink

Fascinating

Linda Quinlan Tue, 14/12/2021 - 08:14 Permalink

Lovely talk beautifully delivered. Really enjoyed it

Iris Aquilina Tue, 14/12/2021 - 08:04 Permalink

An illuminating talk.

Carol Sagrott Tue, 14/12/2021 - 07:59 Permalink

What fun! I’ll be sure to greet my friends with 'Io Saturnalia!' Every Christmas from now on.

Liz Woods Tue, 14/12/2021 - 07:34 Permalink

Great talk and story

Pauline Stewart Tue, 14/12/2021 - 07:32 Permalink