On June 24, during the summer solstice, Slovaks celebrate St. John's Day. This is a very ancient pagan festival dedicated to the sun and its victory over the darkness. With the Day of St. John (in our opinion - Ivan Kupala) many traditions and customs are associated.

Slovaks believe that such jumping competitions help a person to purify himself and get good health. Girls are wondering this evening with wreaths woven from wildflowers and grasses

In the evening, guys and girls make a cross from boards, on which a circle is placed that symbolizes the sun . As a rule, this wheel . "The Sun" is set on fire , and you get a big bonfire through which you absolutely need to jump over. . Slovaks believe that such jumping competitions help a person cleanse and get good health . Girls are wondering this evening with wreaths woven from wild flowers and grasses . Variants - mass . To find out from which side Ones will come the groom, wreaths are let on the water or thrown through the fire . You can also try to throw a wreath on the apple tree . It turned out the first time - you will get married this year, from the second - in two years and so on .

The special attitude to the sun is emphasized by the fact that it is impossible to throw garbage and pour water into the fire on St. John's Day

During the holiday it is necessary to collect herbs - this night they are filled with special strength and will help to cure diseases. But to borrow or to give anything away is not worth it.

If you believe the legends, you can find a treasure in the January night.