The James T. Callow Folklore Archive

SWITCH DAY

THE DAY AFTER EASTER IS KNOWN AS SWITCH DAY (DIENGUS) AMONG POLES.
ON THIS DAY BOYS BUY RED SWITCHES AND ARE ALLOWED TO TRY AND
"SWITCH" THE GIRLS. IF THEY SUCCEED, THE GIRLS MUST TAKE THEM HOME
FOR DINNER, WHERE THE GIRLS' FATHERS SEE THAT THE BOYS HAVE ALL THEY
WANT TO EAT AND DRINK. THE DAY AFTER THIS, THE SITUATION IS
REVERSED AND THE GIRLS GET TO SWITCH THE BOYS THEN TAKE THEM HOME
FOR DINNER.

Submitter comment:

THIS IS STILL A CUSTOM PRACTICED IN HAMTRAMCK.

Where learned: MICHIGAN ; DETROIT

Keyword(s): DYNGUS DAY ; FOOD CUSTOM ; REVENGE ; RITUAL WHIPPING

Subject headings:

CUSTOM FESTIVAL -- Spring Planting Easter Monday Dyngus
CUSTOM FESTIVAL -- Spring Planting Easter Tuesday Revenge Day

Date learned: 04-10-1967