May 27: What holiday is today? Folk traditions and taboos
May 27 marks the Day of the Special Operations Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, while Muslims around the world celebrate one of their most important religious holidays—Eid al-Adha.
On this day, Orthodox Christians also honor Saint John of Rus.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy designated May 27 as Special Operations Forces Day.
On this day, Ukrainians salute the Special Operations Forces (SOF) personnel who carry out reconnaissance operations, sabotage missions behind enemy lines, coordinate the partisan movement, and engage in disinformation against the enemy.
Orthodox believers, following the new church calendar, honor the confessor and miracle-worker John of Rus.
People pray to the saint for the health of children, healing from serious illnesses, and deliverance from harmful habits and hot-temperedness.
According to the old calendar, this day commemorates the martyr Isidore the Blessed.
Muslims celebrate Eid al-Adha on May 27—one of Islam’s major holidays.
On this day, believers pray, perform good deeds, give alms, and sacrifice ritual animals.
Among the international observances on this day are:
- International Sun Protection Day;
- Otter Day;
- Adhesive Tape Day;
- Abolition of Slavery Day;
- Emergency Medical Services Day;
- Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Day.
Our ancestors believed in the following superstitions:
- a cold snap foretells a cool summer;
- a large number of mosquitoes in the evening means high humidity;
- many green cones on a fir tree mean a good cucumber harvest;
- linden blossoms promise a bountiful harvest of zucchini;
- dew that hasn’t dried by noon foretells a thunderstorm and rain.
The day is considered auspicious for reconciliation after quarrels, spending time with relatives, family matters, and shared leisure activities.
Folk traditions warn against the following on this day:
- do not leave dirty dishes;
- do not litter the house;
- do not quarrel with loved ones, even over trifles.
It was believed that conflicts on this day could lead to long-lasting resentment and serious quarrels within the family.
On May 27, Orthodox Christians in Ukraine honor the memory of the holy martyr Ferapont, Bishop of Sardis, who suffered for his faith in the 3rd century. On this day, people traditionally reflect on his life, pray for protection, and observe folk warnings and superstitions. The holiday combines church history with ancient folk beliefs about nature and human behavior.
