February 2nd is both Groundhog Day and Candlemas. It’s the mid-point of Winter. Below you can read some articles about these holidays. While we wait to see if the groundhog will see his shadow, remember the proverb from Guinea: “No matter how long the winter, spring is sure to follow.” Mama Lisa

On February 2nd, Candlemas is celebrated in France every year. It’s called the Fête de la Chandeleur or Feast of Candlemas. It’s the exact mid-point of Winter. Here’s a French proverb sent to me by Monique of the French Mama Lisa’s World. I tried to rhyme the translation for you below… Proverb: “Que la Chandeleur...

In yesterday’s blog entry, I talked about the importance of crêpes for Candlemas (Groundhog Day in the U.S.) I also gave the lyrics to a French song about Candlemas. Here’s another song from France about eating crêpes, in French, with an English translation, and a midi. After that you’ll find a recipe for making...

In France, Candlemas is called the Fête de la Chandeleur or Feast of Candlemas. Pancakes and crêpes are an important aspect of Candlemas. First, both resemble the sun, which everyone is sorely missing at this exact halfway point of winter. Also, it is said that Pope Gelasius I, who introduced Candlemas into the Catholic...

Groundhog Day, the popular American holiday, has its roots in the European holiday Candlemas. Both seem to have developed from an ancient Celtic festival called Imbolc. Imbolc festivities involved lighting fires, in part in honor of Brigid, the Goddess of fertility, love and fire. Imbolc also celebrated the fact that the days would...