In the heart of Transylvania, but also in many other areas of Romania where traditions have survived, Whitsun takes on a special meaning, harmoniously blending Christian and ancient customs. The feast marks the Despouring of the Holy Spirit and is a moment of joy for local communities across the country, as well as providing a unique window on tourism, culture and hospitality.
If you’re a parent and you want your little ones to discover the magic of Whitsun traditions, this is the perfect time to explore together customs that have survived through the centuries.
- What Whitsun means
- The history and myth of Whitsun
- Feast of Whitsun: the most popular customs in Romania
- Whitsun customs and traditions in Transylvania
- Authentic Whitsun experiences at Valea Verde Retreat
- Activities you can do in the area on Whitsun
- Other myths and legends related to Whitsun
What Whitsun means
Whitsun, also known as Pente Whitsun, has a rich history in Romania, rooted in the Christian Orthodox tradition. The feast, which falls 50 days after Easter, commemorates the moment when the Holy Spirit descended on the apostles, marking the birth of the Christian Church.
The history and myth of Whitsun
To better understand the significance of the traditions of Whitsun, we can also look at the myth of the Tower of Babel, which is closely linked to the feast of Whitsun. In very ancient times, people lived in a big, beautiful world where all people spoke the same language and got along with each other. But they had one wish: to build a very tall tower that would reach up to heaven, close to God. They believed that if they could build this tower, they would become strong, they would defy God, and they would not need anything else.
So they started building the tower, but as they were building, something very unusual happened. One day, people started speaking different languages, so they couldn’t understand what each other was saying. By speaking different languages, people couldn’t continue building. Because of this, they had to scatter all over the world, and their tower remained unfinished.
But all was not lost. On another day, much later, God commissioned the 12 apostles to gather people from all over the world and pass on their teachings. The apostles were puzzled. How could they, who knew no foreign language, preach to people from different parts of the world? But the Apostles listened to God’s demands and managed to bring the people together again. This is said to have happened on the day of Whitsun. As none of the apostles could translate the teachings into all the foreign languages, at that moment the Holy Spirit descended on them like tongues of fire, and even though the people gathered spoke in different languages, they all understood perfectly.
As we saw in the story of the myth of the Tower of Babel, the Holy Spirit brought unity in diversity, enabling people in different corners of the world to understand the same message, despite different languages. In a similar way, the celebration of Whitsun in Romania reflects this spiritual unity and communion between people, even when local traditions are very different from one region to another.
Feast of Whitsun: the most popular customs in Romania
Whitsun traditions are closely linked to nature worship and protection against evil. So parents and children can learn about the symbols of medicinal plants and traditions related to protecting the home and loved ones. The holiday has many folk customs that vary from area to area, but all are marked by a deep reverence for the divine spirit and connection with nature.
On Whitsun, people decorate their doors and houses with holy branches
On Whitsun, in some parts of the country, people bring branches of lime, walnut, poplar or oak to the church to be consecrated, as it is said that these branches can ward off evil spirits and diseases. Lime branches are believed to protect households from hail and walnut branches are symbols of the fires that descended on the apostles in Jerusalem. This Whitsun tradition is present in most parts of the country, but is more common in Moldova, Muntenia and Oltenia.
The Gag Game
Another important Whitsun custom is the “Game of the Gags”, which is practiced in various parts of the country, especially in the south and south-west of Romania. The “CăluÈ™arii” are men dressed in traditional costumes, who dance to ward off evil spirits. This is said to be a ritual dance that has magical power in popular belief. It is said that if someone is sick, the dance of the geldings can heal them. Of course this is a legend, but the tradition has remained as an expression of cultural heritage.
Garlic for protection
Women anoint house doors with garlic to protect their households from evil spirits all year round. Garlic is also believed to have healing powers and can ward off illness and bad luck. This Whitsun tradition is particularly common in Moldova, Oltenia and Muntenia.
Whitsun customs and traditions in Transylvania
In Transylvania, Whitsun is not just a religious holiday, but also a time to reconnect with nature, history and ancestors. For families who want to raise their children in a spirit of respect for nature, Whitsun traditions offer an opportunity to learn about folklore, religion and ancient customs. Here are some of the traditions you can encounter if you visit Transylvania during Whitsun:
Sanctifying herbs
On the morning of Whitsun, the faithful bring to church bunches of medicinal herbs such as lime, elder or St. John’s wort. These plants, once consecrated, are carefully preserved and used throughout the year in various traditional cures. Knowledge of the plants’ healing properties is passed down from generation to generation, keeping alive the ancient wisdom of the people.
If you want to explore more of the beauty and heritage of this region, we recommend you to visit the village of Biertan, a place steeped in history and tradition. Read our article Discover Biertan village – history and sights
Watering the Wives
A specific Transylvanian custom is the “Watering the wives”. On the second day of Whitsun, young women are sprinkled with water by the men of the village, a ritual meant to bring fertility and prosperity. This custom, although it may seem unusual to visitors, is received with joy and good cheer by the locals, and is an occasion for social interaction and merriment.
Washing your feet with wormwood
Another widespread custom in Transylvania is ‘washing the feet with wormwood’, which is believed to bring good luck and health. In many Transylvanian villages, on the second day of Whitsun, women wash their feet with wormwood to ward off negative energies and protect themselves from illness.
Offerings for the departed
Also in Transylvania, but not only in Transylvania, on the Saturday before Whitsun, called “MoÈ™ii de Vară”, clay pots with food such as colaci, col coleslaw, cherries and wine are given alms to commemorate the dead. This practice is a sign of respect for the departed and a way of keeping in touch with ancestors. It is a tradition in most Transylvanian villages, but especially in Sibiu, Brasov and Covasna.
Authentic Whitsun experiences at Valea Verde Retreat
If you want to experience the magic of Whitsun in an authentic Transylvanian setting with your family, Valea Verde is the perfect place for an unforgettable vacation. Situated in the small Transylvanian village of Cund, this retreat offers a unique opportunity to learn and experience the traditions of the region in a pleasant and exciting way for the whole family.
Here, you and the little ones can participate in the traditional Whitsun customs.
Cund is a place where tradition and hospitality come together perfectly. As a famous German tour operator once said, “the real Romania is best found in the villages”! At Valea Verde, you will experience the authentic hospitality of a Transylvanian village and discover “a home away from home” in lovingly restored and tastefully furnished old farmhouses. You will be surrounded by a breathtaking natural landscape and learn more about the interesting history and culture of this region.
The spectacular landscape, with green hills, traditional houses and a winding country road leading to the retreat, creates a fairytale atmosphere where you and your family can connect with nature and authentic Transylvanian traditions.
If you want a vacation where you can experience Whitsun with your loved ones, in the middle of a fairytale landscape and Transylvanian hospitality, Valea Verde is waiting for you with open arms!
We’ve made all the preparations to make sure the service is up to your expectations and we look forward to having you with us.
Discover the Valea Verde Whitsun offer
What’s included
– 3 nights accommodation
– 4-course BBQ dinner
– LIVE BBQ festive dinner
– Bonfire
– Carriage ride
– 10% discount on all activities.
Free services for children under 12
Special conditions
50% discount for children 12-16
Activities you can do in the area on Whitsun
Extending the experience beyond the borders of the retreat, in some villages around the Valea Verde, Whitsun is celebrated with great pomp. You can visit the fortified churches in the Valea Verde area, which are steeped in history and tradition. These churches are true treasures of the region and offer a glimpse into Transylvania’s past. What’s more, you can explore everyday life in the nearby villages, where rural traditions are carefully preserved. This way, you will experience the authentic hospitality and culture of the Transylvanian people.
Also, if you want to get even closer to the traditions of the area, at the Valea Verde Retreat you can take part in the Curd Workshop, where you will learn the art of making traditional Transylvanian cheese. Under the guidance of a local cheesemaker, you will discover every step of the process, from selecting the best quality milk to curdling and curd formation. This workshop is an incursion into the culinary traditions of the region and will give you the opportunity to experience the authentic taste of Transylvania. At the end, you will be able to savor your preparation, a moment of satisfaction that will complete the experience. Attending these local events gives you the unique opportunity to integrate into the community and experience the proverbial Transylvanian hospitality.
Last but not least, if you are a parent and you want to give your children an authentic experience, you can organize a special activity: weaving wreaths from wild flowers – a wonderful tradition that will allow your little ones to learn about the plants and flowers characteristic of the region. You could suggest a little nature excursion, where the little ones will learn about the medicinal plants and herbs used by the locals in various Whitsun traditions. It is a perfect opportunity to teach them about the importance of nature and its connection with the ancient traditions of Transylvania.
Book now your accommodation in Valea Verde and experience a real adventure in the heart of Transylvania with your family!
Whitsun superstitions. What not to do on Whitsun
Also on Whitsun, there are certain customs and superstitions that people are used to beware of. Here are some of the things you shouldn’t do on Whitsun:
- Don’t quarrel – It is said that on Whitsun, quarrels and conflicts are considered to bring bad luck to those involved.
- Don’t work – In many traditions, physical labor, especially on Whitsun, is considered a sin. It is also recommended not to wash or weave things.
- Don’t exchange items – In some regions, it is said that you should not lend or give items to others.
- Don’t say bad words – It is believed that on Whitsun, bad thoughts and words can attract evil or affect family harmony and health.
These traditions and superstitions may vary from one area to another, but they are generally linked to respect for this religious holiday.
Other myths and legends related to Whitsun
Beyond the Whitsun traditions and legends already mentioned, Transylvanian folklore is enriched by myths and legends that add a layer of mystery and charm to the celebration of Whitsun. These stories, handed down from generation to generation, contribute to the unique atmosphere of this period and provide a fascinating insight into how local communities understand and interact with the spiritual world.
One of the most popular folk beliefs is that on the night of Whitsun, the heavens open and the souls of the dead return to visit their families. For this reason, in many villages candles are lit and windows left open to welcome the spirits of loved ones. This practice reflects the deep connection that some communities maintain with their ancestors and the spiritual world, emphasizing the importance of continuity and respect for the past in local culture.
Whitsun traditions are a real treasure of Transylvania, full of magic, legends and customs that will fascinate you! Come and live this authentic experience with your family, in the middle of nature, at Valea Verde. Discover traditions, connect with nature and enjoy Transylvanian hospitality! We are waiting for you with more on our Facebook page. ✨
Photo source: Shutterstock and Valea Verde
