In ancient times, January 3 was considered an unlucky day, so in folk tradition this day was often called dangerous or unlucky. At the same time, January 3 also has festive occasions, and believers pray for healing from serious illnesses on this day.
In Ukraine, January 3 is not an official public holiday. However, for many Ukrainians, the day passes in a calm rhythm, because this year the date falls on a Saturday. Famous Ukrainians were born on this day, including artist Ivan Seleznev, composer Borys Lyatoshynsky, UPA soldier Omelyan Polyovy, literary critic Anatoliy Pohrybny, human rights activist Yaroslav Lesiv, and sports journalist Valentyn Shcherbachov.
According to the church calendar, on January 3, the martyr Gordius of Cappadocia and the biblical prophet Malachi are commemorated. In ancient times, according to the old style, the martyr Iualania and Metropolitan Peter of Kiev were commemorated on this day. Saint Gordius is considered the patron saint of people suffering from serious illnesses, especially epilepsy, so believers pray on this day for healing for themselves and their loved ones.
Several unusual holidays are celebrated around the world on January 3. One of them is the birthday of the drinking straw, an invention that significantly influenced the culture of drinking. Literature lovers celebrate Tolkien Day, because it was on January 3 that the writer who created the legendary world of The Lord of the Rings and laid the foundations of the epic fantasy genre was born. Also on this day, the world commemorates such unofficial events as Women's Year Day, Chocolate Cherry Day, Mental Health Day, and the Festival of Sleep.
In addition to John Tolkien, other world-famous personalities were born on January 3, including the orator and philosopher Cicero, British politician Clement Attlee, artist August Macke, film director Sergio Leone, actor Mel Gibson, racing driver Michael Schumacher, and environmental activist Greta Thunberg.
January 3 was associated with numerous folk signs. It was believed that heavy snow on this day promised a good harvest of wheat in the fall, a reddish sun foreshadowed a heavy blizzard, thin ice on rivers meant early spring, and crows sitting high in trees meant a cold January.
According to popular beliefs, this day was dangerous due to the alleged activity of evil spirits. Therefore, people tried not to leave the house unnecessarily, avoid quarrels and be kinder to loved ones. There was also a custom to visit a bathhouse or take water procedures to improve health.
At the same time, January 3 also has its prohibitions. It was not recommended to trust strangers, let them into the house or accept treats from them, so as not to invite trouble. Insults, condemnation of others, envy and comparing oneself with others were prohibited. It was also considered dangerous to boast about one's achievements - according to legend, Saint Gordius could "take away" everything acquired from boasters.
