May 4 traditions blend faith, folklore and fears of witches

May 4 holds special meaning in Orthodox tradition as the feast day of Saint Proclus. The date also carries deep roots in folklore, blending religious observance with old superstitions. Villagers once marked the day with rituals to ward off evil and ensure a good harvest. Saint Proclus, honoured on this day, was believed to shield people from dark forces. His name, however, shares no link to the day’s other customs—unlike the name Thomas, which comes from Hebrew and simply means 'twin'.

On the evening of May 4, fears of witches poisoning grass led to protective measures. Communities gathered outside their villages, turned west, and shouted curses to drive away malevolent spirits. Elders performed rituals, aiming to banish witches from fields and gardens. Nature also played a role in the day’s traditions. Folklore held that if bird cherry trees bloomed early, the coming summer would be unusually warm. The timing of their flowers became a sign villagers watched closely.

The customs of May 4 reflect a mix of faith and old beliefs. While Saint Proclus remains a figure of protection, the day’s rituals show how people once relied on tradition to guard their land. The link between bird cherry blossoms and summer weather still lingers in rural memory.