Baltic Mythology: Shrovetide The Return Of The Earth Goddess

Užgavėnės is the end of winter and time to welcome the spring. In the old days, Užgavėnės was celebrated during Spring Equinox and later it became a movable holiday. Užgavėnės is celebrated as a carnival. The tradition is based on ancient rituals, during which, shades of the dead and different nature spirits are met and greeted. Some of the traditions of Užgavėnės were riding and races, sleigh rides, and masquerades. Still today the celebration of Užgavėnės includes abundant meals.