About
The Kalends of January opened the Roman civil year, when new consuls took office and the day was sacred to Janus, god of doorways and beginnings. Ovid's Fasti describes people speaking only words of good omen, doing a little of their usual work so the year would begin well, and exchanging sweet gifts so that the year would be sweet.
Customs
- Exchanging strenae, small gifts such as honey, dates, dried figs, sprigs of bay and coins
- Speaking only kind, hopeful words on the first day
- Doing a token amount of ordinary work so the year starts as it means to go on
- Offering incense, wine and cakes to Janus at the household door
- Wishing friends and family a happy and prosperous year
Food
- Honey
- Dates and dried figs
- Spelt or honey cakes
- Wine or grape juice
A simple ritual
- Stand at your front door in the morning, open it and pause on the threshold.
- Light a small candle or stick of incense nearby, keeping it safely in view.
- Greet Janus and ask for a good beginning to the year.
- Place a little honey, a date or a fig on a dish as an offering.
- Do a few minutes of the work you most want to carry through the year.
- Give someone a small sweet gift and wish them well, then put out the flame.
Never leave candles or fires unattended, and keep them away from pets and children.
Who is honoured
- Janus Two-faced god of doors and beginnings