About
The Parilia honoured Pales, the protector of shepherds and flocks, and was also kept as the birthday of Rome. Ovid describes shepherds sweeping and decorating the sheepfolds, purifying the animals with smoke of sulphur and herbs, and leaping through bonfires of straw. The purifying ashes used were prepared by the Vestal Virgins.
Customs
- Sweeping out and garlanding the stables and sheepfolds
- Purifying animals and people with smoke
- Leaping over small bonfires of straw
- Offering milk and millet cakes to Pales
- Celebrating the founding of Rome
Food
- Millet cakes
- Milk
- Cheese
- Wine or grape juice
A simple ritual
- Tidy the places where you and any animals in your care live.
- Hang a small garland of greenery by your door.
- Light a candle or a sprig of dried rosemary in a heatproof dish and let a little smoke pass over you, keeping it well away from pets and anything flammable.
- Offer a little milk to Pales for the health of all creatures in your keeping.
- Put out the flame and share milk or cheese with your household.
Never leave candles or fires unattended, and keep them away from pets and children.