In old Rus, May 1 was also called Cuckoo's Day. If the cuckoo has started calling — it is time to sow flax; if the cuckoo calls on a dry tree — frost is coming. It was also believed that if a cuckoo flies through the village, there will be a fire. On Kuzma's day, carrots and beets were traditionally sown.
What you can and cannot do on May 1
- Those who are not yet married must not spend the day alone, otherwise there will be no wedding until the following year.
- You must not show seeds meant for planting to strangers — they may cast the evil eye on them.
- You must not quarrel with relatives and loved ones.
- You must not be sad, so as not to spend the whole summer in such a mood.
- You must not refuse a request or alms, so as not to find yourself in need.
- You must not take risks, because everything will go against plan.
Weather omens for May 1
- A warm May Day — the end of the month will be cold, and vice versa.
- A cold and rainy day — means a bountiful summer.
- A golden sunset and no wind — the weather will be good
- The sun breaking through the clouds — the weather will turn warm.
- The cuckoo calling — means warmth is coming.
- Changeable weather — means drought in summer.
- If you get caught in the rain with your head uncovered, your hair will be thick and strong.
