Why it is not recommended to eat apples on July 19 and why to wear clothes with holes: traditions and prohibitions on Mokryny

July 19, according to the new church calendar, is the day of venerable Macrina, and among the people, this day was called Mokryny. Traditions believe that Macrina’s day means the beginning of autumn, and the weather on this day can tell what autumn will be like.

Typically, during this period, rain is expected, and if it fails to occur, it can lead to drought, threatening the harvest. Therefore, rituals were held in the villages to attract precipitation. People were engaged in harvesting, and work in the fields was usually completed by this time. This day was associated with summer thunderstorms and heavy rains, which could damage hay or, conversely, cause the threat of fires in the fields.

Traditionally, women and girls born on July 19 dressed in blue sundresses, decorated themselves with red beads, and waited for those who returned from the fields. Sheaves were made from the ears of corn brought from the field, and in the evening, the girls arranged round dances, with the birthday girl sitting in the center. To attract rain, she was sent to a reservoir, where she asked the river to help with the rain.

If it rained on this day, the girl was not supposed to go outside, as this could lead to flooding of the land. Today, it is also believed that you can conduct a rite to attract money by wearing things with holes in the pockets, holding a bag with holes, standing in the rain, and asking for abundance.

On July 19, the church advises avoiding swearing, conflicts, and envy. Folk signs also prohibit the use of alcohol and pickling cucumbers, as well as fishing. It is believed that eating apples on this day can provoke minor troubles.

On this day, everyone can perform a ritual to attract prosperity, as people have preserved beliefs and traditions passed down through generations.