Saturnalia was an ancient Roman festival that began on December 17 and was celebrated with feasting, gift-giving and merrymaking. Held in honor of the god Saturn, it was one of the most popular festivals of the Roman year, a time when normal rules were relaxed and social roles were turned upside down. Today, history fans and some modern pagans still mark Saturnalia, and many people are curious about its connections to later winter holidays.
History of Saturnalia
Saturn was the Roman god of agriculture and sowing, associated with a legendary golden age of plenty. Saturnalia began as a one-day festival on December 17 at the Temple of Saturn in the Roman Forum, but over time it stretched to several days, often through December 23.
During Saturnalia, businesses and schools closed, people wore casual clothing and a felt cap called the pileus, usually worn by freed slaves, and gambling was allowed in public. Masters sometimes served meals to enslaved people, and households chose a mock 'king' to preside over the fun. People exchanged small gifts, such as candles and clay figurines called sigillaria, and greeted each other with 'Io Saturnalia!'. The poet Catullus called it 'the best of days'.
As Christianity spread, Saturnalia faded. Historians debate how much it influenced Christmas, but some customs of midwinter feasting, gift-giving and festive misrule, such as the medieval 'Lord of Misrule', show similarities.
Why Saturnalia Matters
Saturnalia offers a fascinating window into daily life and religion in ancient Rome.
Its traditions of feasting, generosity and temporary equality show how people in many cultures have used midwinter celebrations to bring light and joy to the darkest time of year.
Learning about Saturnalia also helps people understand how holidays evolve, borrowing and blending traditions over centuries.
How to Celebrate Saturnalia
- Learn Roman history: read about Saturnalia customs.
- Host a Roman feast: serve bread, olives, cheese and honey cakes.
- Exchange small gifts: give candles or handmade figurines.
- Try role reversal: let kids plan the evening's activities.
- Greet friends: say 'Io Saturnalia!'
Celebrating at Work, School and Home
At work, Saturnalia can be a fun history trivia theme for a holiday party. In classrooms, students can study Roman religion and daily life, compare Saturnalia with other winter festivals, or write about what a day of role reversal might look like. At home, families can host a Roman-themed dinner, make simple clay figurines as gifts, or read myths about Saturn. Discuss respectfully how ancient and modern traditions differ.
Fun Facts About Saturnalia
- Saturnalia began on December 17 at the Temple of Saturn in Rome.
- Romans exchanged candles and clay figurines called sigillaria.
- The poet Catullus called Saturnalia 'the best of days'.
Saturnalia FAQs
When was Saturnalia celebrated?
Saturnalia began on December 17 and eventually lasted several days, often until December 23.
What was Saturnalia?
An ancient Roman festival honoring the god Saturn, celebrated with feasts, gifts and role reversals.
What gifts were given during Saturnalia?
Romans exchanged candles, small clay figurines called sigillaria and other modest gifts.
Did Saturnalia influence Christmas?
Historians debate it; some midwinter customs show similarities, but direct links are uncertain.
What did 'Io Saturnalia' mean?
It was a festive greeting shouted during the celebration.
Is Saturnalia still celebrated?
Some history enthusiasts and modern pagans celebrate it today.