13 May 2026: what holiday is it, what are the traditions, and what should you avoid doing?

On Wednesday, 13 May 2026, according to the New Julian calendar, the Orthodox Church of Ukraine commemorates the holy martyr Glyceria the Virgin.

Glikeria lived in the 2nd century and suffered for her Christian faith during the persecutions under the reign of Emperor Marcus Aurelius.

According to tradition, she refused to offer sacrifices to pagan idols. For this, she was subjected to brutal torture, but she did not renounce her faith.

In the Church tradition, Saint Glyceria is remembered as an example of spiritual fortitude, fidelity to Christian beliefs and courage in the face of persecution.

On this day, believers turn to her with prayers for strength of spirit, patience, protection from injustice and help in difficult life circumstances.

What holidays are celebrated on 13 May

Internationally, several unofficial and themed dates are observed on 13 May.

Among them is World Dandelion Day. This holiday is dedicated to the flower that symbolises vitality, the renewal of nature and the arrival of warmth. Dandelions are also used in folk medicine, cooking and herbalism.

International Hummus Day is also celebrated on 13 May. This is a gastronomic celebration for lovers of a dish made from chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic and spices. Hummus is common in the cuisines of the Middle East and the Mediterranean.

Another date on this day is the Birthday of the Zipper. It is 13 May that is associated with the history of the creation of this practical element of clothing, footwear, bags and accessories.

What not to do on 13 May

According to folk beliefs, it was not advisable to leave hair on a comb on 13 May. It was believed that this could lead to illness or a loss of vital energy.

Also, on this day, one should not argue, swear or gossip. People believed that negative words could come back to haunt a person a hundredfold.

It was not advisable to lend money or items, so as not to bring financial instability upon the family.

After sunset, it was not recommended to start major undertakings. It was advised to postpone important decisions until the morning.

It was particularly emphasised that on 13 May, one should not refuse to help those in need. According to popular belief, indifference on this day could lead to loneliness or a loss of support in the future.

Folk omens for 13 May

If there are lots of mosquitoes, there may be a bountiful mushroom harvest in the autumn.

If the birds are singing louder than usual, sunny and dry weather was expected in the coming days.

A thunderstorm on this day was considered a sign of a good hay harvest and a bountiful summer.

Morning mist – a sign of prolonged rain in the second half of May.

A clear sunrise – a sign of a warm and fine day.

A lot of dew on the grass – a sign of fine weather and a bountiful vegetable harvest.

If bees are flying actively in the morning, the day will be warm and favourable for working in the fields.

If the wind changes direction during the day, the weather may become unsettled.

Who celebrates their name day on 13 May

Name days on 13 May are celebrated by Oleksandr, Heorhii, Yurii, Yegor, Hlykeria, Lykera, Iryna, Serhii and Taras.

On a name day, it is traditional to wish the person good health, spiritual strength, peace, prosperity and God’s protection.

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