National Flitch Day
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Where is National Flitch Day celebrated?
National Flitch Day is celebrated in the United Kingdom.
Who is National Flitch Day celebrated by?
Married couples celebrate National Flitch Day, along with the unmarried people who make up the juries and just about anyone else who wishes to participate.
When did National Flitch Day first start?
The exact date of the foundation is unknown at the moment, but it is claimed that this event is a legacy of an ancient custom.
Who started National Flitch Day?
The answer to this question is a bit of a mystery as of now, although it is claimed that Sir Thomas May encouraged the revival of this custom in 1701.
History And Timeline
National Flitch Day is an unofficial holiday that is observed every year on July 19. This event carries on with the legacy of an English custom that is traced back to the 13th or 14th century, which is also mentioned in Chaucer's 'The Canterbury Tales' that was published in the late 1400s.
Tradition Of Little Dunmow
In a village named Little Dunmow, situated in England, this tradition was given first started in 1104.
1104Chaucer's 'Canterbury Tales'
The custom of a flitch of bacon was mentioned in Chaucer's 'The Canterbury Tales.'
1400sResurrection Of The Custom
The custom was resurrected by Sir Thomas May after he became the owner of a priory.
1701'The Flitch Of Bacon'
A novel was written by William Harrison Ainsworth named 'The Flitch Of Bacon' and called for a resurrection of the tradition again.
1854Traditions And Customs
Great Dunmow is the only place that carries on with the legacy of this old custom once every four years, on a leap year. The married couples are ordered to join hand sin holy quire, and they take an oath.
Couples should be married at least as long as a year and a day; they also needed to kneel on sharp stones promising their devotion. After the flitch trials, successful couples are marched down the High Street and are then awarded a flitch of bacon (half a pig).
Ways To Observe Or Celebrate Flitch Day
You can read the novel 'The Flitch Of Bacon' written by well-known William Harrison Ainsworth. This will help you reflect on the history and origin of this custom. You can also share the knowledge that you gained from this novel with your friends and loved ones and spread messages regarding the significance of this day.
By following this old tradition, you can gift a flitch of bacon to a married couple all by yourself. This would make it look like a heartwarming and loving action towards them.
You can also attend the Dunmow Flitch Trials on a leap year and enjoy watching the married couples win a flitch of bacon.
Facts And Stats
- The Dunmow Flitch Trials Website has uploaded more information on both the topics like custom's origin and modern trials to refer to on this day. This event normally occurs during leap years.
- National Flitch Day is an informal holiday that follows an ancient English custom that dates back to the 13th or 14th century wherein married couples are awarded a flitch of bacon, i.e., half a pig, for their loyalty towards one another.
- An astounding fact to know about this day is this tradition was also introduced in America by English settlers, but unfortunately, it did not survive for a long time.
- Although traditionally the day falls only on leap years, it can be celebrated every year, and that is just what many people do!
What is the importance of celebrating National Flitch Day?
The importance of National Flitch Day is that it celebrates the legacy of an ancient tradition exclusively established for married couples by awarding them a flitch of bacon for their loyalty and affection towards one another.
What are some disadvantages of celebrating National Flitch Day?
There are no disadvantages of this day.
What are some events similar to National Flitch Day?
Gold Star Spouses Day is an event similar to National Flitch Day.
Who encouraged the celebration of National Flitch Day?
Sir Thomas May encouraged the resurrection of this tradition after he became the owner of the priory in 1701.
What is National Flitch Day about?
National Flitch Day is about awarding married couples with a slab of bacon for their love and affection towards their significant other.
When Is This Day Celebrated
- Saturday, July 18, 2020
- Sunday, July 18, 2021
- Monday, July 18, 2022
- Tuesday, July 18, 2023
- Thursday, July 18, 2024
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Bachelor of Arts specializing in Multimedia and Mass Communication
Ada ShaikhnagBachelor of Arts specializing in Multimedia and Mass Communication
As a skilled communicator with exceptional interpersonal abilities, Ada holds a Bachelor's degree in Multimedia and Mass Communication from SIES (Nerul) College of Arts, Science & Commerce. Fluent in English and proficient in German, Ada enjoys engaging in meaningful conversations with people while striving to achieve her goals.
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