September 1 is traditionally associated with the beginning of the school year, but this day also has broader symbolism — from the church New Year's Eve to folk signs that indicated the weather and harvest.
Holidays in the world
In many countries, the academic year begins on September 1st at schools and universities. This day is celebrated as World Knowledge Day.
Also today, the world celebrates Dolphin Day, Primate Day, Letter Writing Day, and Ginger Cat Day.
Famous people born on this day include writer Edgar Rice Burroughs, physicist Francis Aston, actress Zendaya, and singer Jungkook.
What is celebrated in Ukraine?
Ukraine joins the celebration of Knowledge Day. Schools traditionally hold a solemn First Bell. In times of war, some educational institutions refuse flowers for teachers, urging parents and children to make donations to the army.
Also, famous Ukrainians were born on September 1: microbiologist Serhiy Vinogradsky, public figure Olga Besarab, physicist Igor Yukhnovsky, and miniature master Mykola Syadristy.
Church holiday
For Christians, this day is special. For Orthodox Christians, New Year, or the New Church Year, begins. Believers remember Saint Simeon the Pillar-bearer, to whom they pray for spiritual strength and endurance in difficult times. According to the old calendar, this day was the day of honoring the martyr Andrew Stratilat.
Folk traditions and signs
September 1 is popularly known as Semyonov Day. It was believed to be a happy time for weddings and travel. Peasants celebrated the beginning of autumn with a feast of flour dishes from the new harvest.
The signs of the day suggested the weather:
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south wind - to warmth, north wind - to frost;
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a lot of dew in the morning - to heat;
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changeable weather throughout the day - September will be unstable.
Bans of the day
It was not advisable to start new ventures on New Year's Day, as they were unlikely to be successful. It was also forbidden to take revenge, swear, and even mentally wish evil upon other people.
