Vulcanalia- The Day of Volcānus
On August 23rd the ancient Romans celebrated Vulcanalia - in honor of the God Volcānus - the God of Fire, Metal-crafting, the Forge, Harmful Fires, Deserts, and Volcanoes. The son of Jupiter and Juno, Volcānus parallels the Greek Hephaestus, the Etruscan Sethlans and the Sicilian Adrano. During the festival of Vulcanalia, sacrifice and libation was offered to Volcānus in hopes to avert dangerous fires that may ignite under the summer heat. Bonfires were ignited in honor of Volcānus to which many were given libations of fish and small animals - a spiritual exchange for human life. It is often said his name is derived from the Latin word for ‘lightning’ - possibly in relation to the flames caused by a lightning strike. It is common among those of the Old Wisdom to keep wood from a tree that has been struck by lightning - when carried, it is believed to be an amulet of both power and protection. Date : August 23rd - Vulcanalia Symbols : Blacksmith Hammer and Anvil