Today it is Dies Comitialis – almost the same as Dies FASTI, but these days are reserved for public gatherings of Romans – comitia. So, if your local community is going to appoint a gathering to discuss certain matters and make decisions – these days are just perfect for that!
It is the 13th day before Kalendae Ianuariae.
It is the B nundial day, the second day before Nundinae – the market day this year.
SATVRNALIA – Saturnalia is a festival and holiday in honour of the God Saturn, held on 17 December with festivities through to 23 December. The holiday was celebrated with a sacrifice at the Temple of Saturn, in the Roman Forum, and Romans hold a public banquet, followed by private gift-giving, continual partying, and a carnival atmosphere that overturned Roman social norms: gambling is permitted, and masters provide table service for their slaves as it is seen as a time of liberty for both slaves and freedmen alike. A common custom is the election of a “King of the Saturnalia”, who gives orders to people, which are followed and presided over the merrymaking. The gifts exchanged are usually gag gifts or small figurines made of wax or pottery known as sigillaria. The poet Catullus called it “the best of days”. Saturnalia have influenced the customs associated with later celebrations in western Europe occurring in midwinter, particularly traditions associated with Christmas, the Feast of the Holy Innocents, and Epiphany. In particular, the historical western European Christmas custom of electing a “Lord of Misrule” has its roots in Saturnalia celebrations..
