Focurilor

Focurilor refers to a collection of traditional Romanian folk customs and rituals primarily observed during the period of the Nativity fast, which precedes Christmas. These traditions are characterized by the lighting of bonfires, hence the name "focurilor" which translates to "fires" in Romanian. The practice is deeply rooted in ancient agricultural and pagan beliefs, often symbolizing the purification of the land, the expulsion of evil spirits, and the welcoming of a new cycle.

The bonfires are typically lit on designated evenings, often in rural communities, with villagers gathering around them. The rituals can involve singing traditional carols, dancing, and sometimes symbolic offerings. The smoke from the fires is believed to possess protective qualities, warding off illness and misfortune for both people and livestock. In some regions, young people might jump over the fires as a test of courage and a symbolic act of purification.

While the exact customs and their intensity vary significantly by geographical area within Romania, the core element of the bonfire remains central. These traditions serve not only as a communal gathering point but also as a means of preserving cultural heritage and passing down ancestral knowledge. In modern times, some of these practices continue, albeit sometimes in a more secularized or adapted form, still drawing communities together to celebrate a shared past and the coming of winter holidays.