Caristia

Caristia

Caristia was a Roman festival celebrated on February 22nd. It was primarily a family gathering designed to mend any existing rifts and reaffirm bonds of affection and kinship. The name Caristia derives from the Latin word carus, meaning "dear" or "beloved."

The day was devoted to demonstrating affection among family members. It involved a feast that families prepared together, offerings to the household gods (Lares and Penates), and exchanging gifts. The atmosphere was intended to be one of joy and reconciliation, a time to set aside any grievances that might have arisen over the past year.

Unlike some other Roman festivals that were celebrated publicly, Caristia was a private affair centered on the home and family unit. It served as an important reminder of the value of familial harmony within Roman society. It followed the Parentalia (February 13-21), a period dedicated to honoring deceased ancestors, and may have been seen as a necessary balance, shifting focus from the departed to the living.