20 March: What holiday is it today, and what should women do to bring good luck?
20 March is considered a turning point, as this date marks the beginning of astronomical spring in the Northern Hemisphere. From this time onwards, according to popular belief, there is a noticeable warming and the first spring flowers begin to bloom.
In 2026, the spring equinox will occur across the entire Northern Hemisphere on 20 March, when day and night each last 12 hours. From the very next day, daylight hours will begin to increase.
Although this is an astronomical event, it is celebrated as a festival. In Ukraine, it is customary on this day to sing spring songs, light bonfires and bake bird-shaped biscuits. According to folklore, these actions are meant to ‘hurry up’ spring and summon the sun.
According to the New Church calendar, 20 March is the day on which the Orthodox Church honours Saint Photini – Svetlana of Rome. In the Bible, she is mentioned as the woman who gave Jesus water to drink from a well. People pray to her for feminine happiness, a strong marriage and good motherhood. For girls named Svitlana, this day holds special significance, as they can ask for personal intercession from their namesake saint.
Among international dates, 20 March is International Earth Day. It was established to remind humanity of our collective responsibility for the future of the planet and for what we leave to future generations.
This day is also celebrated as Happiness Day. It was introduced to encourage people to cherish happy moments and not to put off the chance to treat themselves to little pleasures.
In addition, 20 March marks French Language Day, Sparrow Day, Frog Day, Astrology Day, Wildlife Restoration Day and Children’s Theatre Day.
Folk omens for this date are linked to the weather. If the clouds drift high and slowly, fine weather is expected. If larks have arrived, a significant warming is approaching. The appearance of flies and mosquitoes means there will be no more frosty nights. Rain on this day is considered a sign of a bountiful wheat harvest.
Recalling the biblical parable of Saint Svitlana, our ancestors would consecrate wells on 20 March. They would sprinkle the house and barn with water from these wells, whilst young women would wash their faces for beauty and well-being. From this date, they would also begin collecting birch sap. On the day of the spring equinox, they also remembered deceased relatives at supper, leaving a bowl of porridge for them.
On this day, it is not advisable to gossip or discuss acquaintances behind their backs, as, according to superstition, this may lead to problems in one’s personal life. Furthermore, 20 March is considered an unlucky day for working in the garden and planting, as the plants are said not to take root.
