In ancient times, the fifth month of winter, called Goa, began from this day. In different areas, the image of the month of Goa was interpreted differently —, either she was a wife, or a daughter, or a sister to the previous month, Torrey. According to one legend, she was also the sister of Sugrob, Metel and Porosha, the granddaughter of Snowball and the great-granddaughter of Glacier.
All this vast family already speaks of Goa as a harsh month. And to beg her, the housewife got up early, opened the door slightly and shouted a special verse. According to other sources, the wife had to run around the farm three times in a trouser leg, dressed only on one leg (appropriate for her husband when meeting the previous month, Torrey). According to another version, the women had to rest from the very morning, entrusting all the work to the male population of the farm.
By the way, the last days of the month of Goa were called «Goi» Service, and although they anticipated the arrival of the long-awaited summer, they were considered the most severe. According to folk tradition, these days were dedicated either to old maids or unmarried mothers, which in ancient times was considered a sin. Any business, especially those related to navigation, became extremely dangerous.
Be that as it may, since the 19th century this holiday began to be celebrated as Women's Day. Men tried to please their wives by shouldering the burden of domestic work on themselves, as well as serving them coffee and breakfast in bed. With the advent of flowers on the Icelandic market, multi-colored bouquets also became an attribute of the holiday. Nowadays it is also popular to give ladies hearts a special cake, the recipe of which is chosen every year by a special commission, which makes the «Cake of the Year» standard the same in all confectionery shops in the country.
So, men, don’t forget that today (as every day) there is a reason to demonstrate special care to your loved one!