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The James T. Callow Computerized Folkore Archive | University of Detroit Mercy Libraries Back to Top
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ST. BRIGID'S DAY

FEBRUARY 1 IN IRELAND IS ST. BRIGID'S DAY. THAT NIGHT, THE "BIDDY
BOYS" GO ROUND FROM FARM HOUSE TO FARM HOUSE, WEARING MASKS AND
SINGING SONGS. AFTER THEIR SONGS, THEY ASK "THE WOMAN OF THE
HOUSE" FOR MONEY. ON THE FOLLOWING NIGHT AT THE LOCAL DANCE HALL,
THERE IS A BIDDY BALL, AND ALL THE GIRLS WEAR MASKS. THE LAST GIRL
TO BE IDENTIFIED IS CALLED THE BIDDY GIRL--A REAL COMPLIMENT TO HER
FEMININE VANITY. ( A COUNTY KERRY CUSTOM ONLY. )

Where learned: MICHIGAN ; DETROIT

Keyword(s): BEGGING ; MUMMING

Subject headings: CUSTOM FESTIVAL -- February 1

Date learned: 11-00-1970

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