TIRANA, March 14 – Albanians across the country gathered over the weekend, especially in the central cities of Elbasan and Tirana, to celebrate Summer’s Day, Albania’s sole official holiday with pagan roots which marks the end of winter.
Thousands of Albanians flocked to the main streets in Elbasan, where the Summer’s Day tradition started centuries ago. Celebrations started there last Friday night with many festivities like concerts, carnivals and, of course, the ballakume, the traditional Summer’s Day cookie.
Icelandic singer and songwriter Emiliana Torrini and several renowned international DJs were invited to perform in Tirana on March 14.
Summer’s Day was mostly celebrated in Elbasan, until a decade ago. Approved by the Albanian Parliament in 2004 as an official and national holiday, this day of pagan celebration symbolizes the rebirth of nature, the awakening from a long dark winter and a general rejuvenation of one’s spirit.
The celebration of Summer’s Day dates back to ancient times in the city of Elbasan, which due in part to its location in the geographic center of the country, was considered the umbilical city for all of Albania.
According to an Albanian legend, the Mountain Muse, who was the goddess of hunting, forests, and all things related to nature, would usher in summer by coming out of her temple on the 14th of March.
While thousands of people still rush to Elbasan, where the holiday originates, celebrations in Tirana are becoming ever bigger ever since Summer’s Day was announced a national holiday.
