New Year's Eve in Transylvania: between tradition and dance

Introduction

There are only a few days left in this year, and tourists are starting to appear one by one in the guesthouses of Transylvania. In recent years, the cities in this region of Romania have become increasingly attractive, especially to foreign tourists. For this reason, the guesthouses are competing to offer the most diverse activities:

• Tastings of țuică
• Horse-drawn sleigh rides
• Mulled wine served by a campfire
• Traditional dances and carol performances

Sacred Traditions

Beyond the specific activities, tourists can also enjoy the sacred traditions that mark certain areas. For example, in Jina, in the Mărginimea Sibiului region, at midnight on December 31st, the village youth gather in the center of the commune to begin a ceremonial burial of the past year. The entrance into the new year, of course, is celebrated with songs, fireworks, and traditional games.

Local Customs

The "Capra" Tradition

Another custom that is preserved in almost all areas of Southern Transylvania is the "Capra" tradition. Starting from Christmas and lasting until after the New Year, the young men of the village dress up as a goat and go from house to house to dance the goat, bringing luck and prosperity to the villagers for the coming year.

A Unique Custom in Northern Transylvania

In Northern Transylvania, there is another custom, this time much less known. On New Year's Eve, the young people of the village gather and steal the gates from the houses of married girls. This custom mainly takes place in Maramureș.

The Tradition of "Plugușorul"

The tradition of "plugușorul" is still respected in many villages in Transylvania. Young people gather and go from house to house from New Year's Eve until morning, accompanied by bells, a buhai (a traditional instrument), and whips, singing a specific song for this custom.

Conclusion

Transylvania is full of customs and traditions, and when it comes to Christmas and New Year, the table is richer, the glasses are filled with fresh wine, and the joy is in full swing.

Happy New Year!