Floralia

Floralia was an ancient Roman celebration that took place from April 28 – May 3, to honor Flora, the goddess of flowers and Spring, and, of course, Fertility.  In fact, it was quite the wild party where they wore togas of bright colors, not the typical white.  

Some painted their bodies and wore no togas at all.  There were sports challenges and competitions.  There was theatrical presentations and performances.  There were even circus offerings.  Of course, the party was a circus in itself.  Doves and goats and hares were set loose and celebrated.  The poorer people scattered beans all over the grounds and beans were scattered on the steps leading into the temples.  

Now, just so you know what kind of party this was, Floria was a party for what we would call ‘women of the night’.  Most of these prostitutes, both male and female, were slaves and/or mostly outcasts from society, so this was their time to dance lightly through the cities and towns.  (Think Pride Week and culminating celebrations.  They got the permission, only during this time, to take part in gladiator competitions, dancing and all the ceremonies that took place, equally and without judgment.  Of course, most of the non-slaves were hoping for new ownership, a chance to be so appealing that one of higher position might take them as their own personal sex slave.  Is it no wonder that Christianity got rid of this festival as quickly as they could?

©Carol Desjarlais 5.4.20