The Christian festival of lights marks the midpoint of winter, half way between the shortest day and the spring equinox.
40 days after the birth of Jesus it commemorates his presentation to the temple in Jerusalem and the purification of Mary.
Before Christ, candles were brought to church to be blessed because people thought they protected them against plague, illness and famine.

Some people believe it predicted the weather for the rest of winter.

So look at the weather today and make your forecast.

It is traditional to eat crepes on Candlemas in some parts of Europe, such as France.
 Each family member prepares and cooks a crepe while holding a coin in hand. This is believed to assure wealth and happiness until the next Candlemas celebration.  For more on pancakeday go to 3 feb 2015

Are you having some today ? Do you hold a coin while you toss them?

It is also Groundhog Day in the United States and Canada on February 2. According to folklore, the badger comes out to test the weather. For more on this event go to Feb 2012 You can also watch a film about it.



Snowdrops (galanthas nivalis) are known as Candlemas Bells because they often bloom early in the year, even before Candlemas.

You've got another article on these days on 2 Feb 2011