Ivan Kupala Day or Feast of St. John the Baptist in Kaluga Region

Ivan Kupala Day was celebrated in the Kaluga Region, central Russia, on this weekend.

Before the Christianity the festival was related to the summer solstice (June 20-21). With adoption of Christianity the festival was dedicated to the birthday of St. John the Baptist that is celebrated on June 24 in Julian or old style calendar which still used by Orthodox Church or on July 7 in the Gregorian or new calendar.

Ivan Kupala Day is filled with rituals associated with water, fire and herbs. Most of the midsummer rites are held at night.

The main feature of Kupala night is clearing bonfires. Young people dance around bonfires and jump over the flames.

It is believed that midsummer bonfire has magical power that can ward off all evil particularly witches who are especially dangerous during Kupala night.

The characteristic sign of Ivan Kupala Day is numerous customs and traditions associated with the plant life.

Traditionally on this day young people wear flower or herb wreaths on their heads.