Date: 1st of Husten
Significance: Leaf Fall marks the beginning of Husten and celebrates the changing of the leaves and the beauty of autumn. This holiday is primarily observed in the lands of Rivermond and Kalamar, where local druids uphold and lead these celebrations. The festival honors the transition from summer to autumn, a time of great natural beauty and reflection on the bounty of the past season.
The origins of Leaf Fall can be traced back to ancient druidic traditions. The druids of Rivermond and Kalamar have long revered the changing seasons as sacred, with autumn representing both the culmination of summer's growth and the preparation for winter's dormancy. Over time, the broader populace adopted these customs, integrating them into their own cultural practices.
Traditions and Events:
- Leaf-themed Decorations: Homes, streets, and public spaces are adorned with an array of leaf-themed decorations, including wreaths, garlands, and colorful banners. The vibrant hues of red, orange, and gold reflect the changing foliage, creating a festive atmosphere throughout the towns and villages.
- Druidic Gatherings: Druids play a central role in Leaf Fall celebrations, organizing gatherings and rituals to honor the natural world. These gatherings often take place in sacred groves or forest clearings, where druids lead ceremonies to invoke blessings upon the land and offer prayers for a bountiful autumn season.
- Drunk Gatherings: While some choose to observe Leaf Fall with quiet contemplation and reverence, others embrace the festive spirit with lively gatherings marked by merriment and revelry. Family and friends come together to share laughter, stories, and, in many cases, copious amounts of alcohol. Drinking songs fill the air as people raise their glasses in a toast to the changing seasons and the blessings of the harvest.