The James T. Callow Folklore Archive

"WYGILIA" IS A MEAL CELEBRATED AT CHRISTMAS EVE. AT THIS MEAL
THIRTEEN DIFFERENT FOODS ARE LAID IN A BED OF STRAW. STRAW REPRESENT
THE CRIB. THE THIRTEEN DIFFERENT FOODS REPRESENT THE BLESSED MOTHER,
THE THREE KINGS, AND ALL OF THE ANIMALS. IT IS A TRADITIONAL MEAL
COOKED BEFORE NOON CHRISTMAS EVE DAY. NO COOKING IS DONE AFTER NOON
UNTIL THE DAY AFTER CHRISTMAS.

Where learned: MICHIGAN ; BERKELEY

Subject headings:

686 Specific number by specific number being described
CUSTOM FESTIVAL -- December 24 Christmas Eve
CUSTOM FESTIVAL -- Typical Elements of a Festive Pattern
Food Drink -- Typical menus for the various meals For meal hours, see F574.84. Special or festive meals

Date learned: 00-00-1950