Felvitele

Felvitele is a term that refers to a group of traditional festivals celebrated in various regions of Romania, particularly in the historical region of Transylvania. These festivals are deeply rooted in the rural culture and folklore of the area, and they typically take place during the winter months, with the most prominent being the Christmas and New Year's celebrations.

The term "felvitele" is derived from the Romanian word "felvitor," which means "to celebrate" or "to make merry." The festivals are characterized by a series of rituals, games, and customs that have been passed down through generations. These include the "sorcs" or "sorci," a group of costumed figures who go from house to house performing traditional dances and songs, often accompanied by musical instruments like the violin, accordion, and drum.

One of the most distinctive aspects of felvitele is the use of masks and costumes, which are often made from natural materials like straw, wood, and animal skins. These masks and costumes are believed to have protective and apotropaic functions, warding off evil spirits and bringing good luck for the coming year. The figures represented in these costumes vary by region but often include characters like the bear, the goat, the old man, and the bride.

Felvitele also involve a variety of games and competitions, such as sledding, ice skating, and snowball fights. Food and drink play a central role in the celebrations, with traditional dishes like "sarmale" (cabbage rolls), "mici" (grilled minced meat rolls), and "coliva" (a sweet wheat dish) being commonly served.

In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in preserving and promoting these traditional festivals, as they are seen as an important part of Romania's cultural heritage. Efforts have been made to document and study the various customs and rituals associated with felvitele, and some regions have even organized festivals to showcase these traditions to a wider audience. Despite these efforts, however, many of the older generations who remember and practice these traditions are aging, and there is a risk that some of the more obscure customs may be lost over time.