Ancient rite in Lelchitsy District

The Gramnitsy ancient rite was performed in the village of Novoye Polesie, Lelchitsy District. The rite is to mark the meeting of winter and spring. Participants of the rite decorate a small fir tree with flowers and then a solemn procession carrying the village's main icon crosses the village. On the outskirts of the village they make a fire, burn old things, fry lard, dance round dances around the fire and play games.