Saturnalia: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about Saturnalia (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. Saturnalia is observed on December 17th.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of Saturnalia, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as fun facts you should know about Saturnalia.

📅 What day is Saturnalia 2024?

In 2024, Saturnalia is on Sunday, December 17th. It is the 3rd Sunday in December; in 2024, it is Tuesday. There are until the next observance. You also can view all the fun details and facts about December 17, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

Saturnalia, an ancient Roman festival happening from December 17 to 23, is a special time to honor the agricultural god Saturn. It was the most popular celebration in ancient Rome and grew from earlier ceremonies related to farming during midwinter and the winter solstice. The festival was filled with joy and preparation, and it was impossible to miss the Saturnalia festivities, even if you were new to the area. People took it very seriously, and normal social rules were put on hold. During this time, there were feasts, gift-giving, singing, dancing, games, gambling, decorations, and even role-reversals. Companies, schools, courts, and other places of work would close so that everyone could participate in the celebrations. “Io saturnalia” was the traditional greeting, signaling excitement in the air and a celebration of the god Saturn.

📜 Saturnalia History

Saturnalia, a festive celebration in ancient Rome, was not only observed in households but also in the temple of Saturn. The temple, built in the fourth century, replaced an older version. As part of the festivities, a young pig would be publicly sacrificed on the first day. The symbolic act of releasing woolen bindings from the feet of the statue of Saturn represented the god’s liberation. Archaeological sites in Constantine, Algeria, reveal that the Saturn statue was present there until the early third century.

During Saturnalia, a slave from wealthy Roman homes would be chosen as the “leader of Saturnalia” or the pretend king. This individual was responsible for planning mischief and fun during the celebrations. In contrast to the structured Roman lifestyle, the pretend king embodied chaos and also presented gifts to the household gods. Other Saturnalia traditions, like hiding small objects in cakes, were later incorporated into midwinter festivals.

Many present-day midwinter festivities have their roots in Saturnalia. Christmas traditions, including their timing, can be traced back to this ancient celebration. Since the Bible does not specify Jesus’ birthdate, theologians deduced that he was likely born in the spring. The Roman conquests in Britain and Europe suppressed the seasonal festivals of the Celts and other people. It was during this period that December 25 was adopted as the date for Christmas, incorporating elements from Saturnalia and other midwinter rituals. The coexistence of pagans and Christians may have been an attempt by the pagans to embrace Christianity as the official religion of Rome.

✅ Saturnalia Facts

🔖 Io Saturnalia
Romans used to exchange greetings with each other by saying “EEyo-sa-tur-NAH-ee-uh” during the festival season.

🔖 Slaves enjoyed luxury
Saturnalia was a festive event where people celebrated freedom and dismantled social hierarchies. During this time, slaves might have enjoyed luxurious experiences on par with their masters.

🔖 Pork was the favorite Roman meat
During the festival of Saturnalia, people exchanged gifts that sometimes included live pigs and pork sausage.

👍 Why Is Saturnalia Important

Outside of the public feast, giving presents was the most significant component—signillaria (small wax or pottery figurines, which some think became the toys we give out today). Signillaria could be quite expensive depending on their ornateness; less expensive gifts included dice, writing tables, combs, and tools. Everyone was looking forward to this moment.

Saturnalia provided individuals with time apart from all types of employment. This provided an opportunity to reconnect with distant family, relatives, and friends.

People were able to relax and enjoy themselves during the festival period. What better way to mark the occasion?

🙂 How To Observe Saturnalia

⚡ Do some decoration

⚡ Wear the colors of the day
The colors green and gold signify readiness for the season when worn.

⚡ Try out symbols
Greenery may be used to decorate doors, windows, and staircases. Although garlands or wreaths are preferable, golden cutouts of the sun or golden pinecones, almonds, or acorns can also be used.

📅 When is Saturnalia?

See all 🔗 December holidays, including 🔗 Special Interest and other 🔗 Cultural holidays.

We will continue to update this page with new information and interesting facts about Saturnalia. So be sure to check back soon.