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May has traditionally been considered an unlucky month for weddings in many Western cultures. The rhyme “Marry in May, rue the day” expresses this belief, warning couples against May ceremonies.
This matrimonial superstition traces back to ancient Rome, where citizens observed Lemuria, a festival for exorcising malevolent spirits, during May. Because the month was associated with death rituals and purification ceremonies, marriages were actively discouraged. Romans believed spirits of the dead were particularly active during this period, potentially bringing misfortune to new unions.
While June remains the most popular wedding month in many Western countries, the prohibition against May weddings has faded significantly. However, wedding industry professionals report that May still sees fewer bookings than surrounding months in countries with strong Roman Catholic traditions like Italy, France, and parts of Latin America.
Ancient Roman roots
Linked to spirits and rituals
Fewer bookings in Catholic regions
In several Asian and Eastern European cultures, a traditional ceremony is held for babies usually around their first birthday. Known
This superstition advises that no form of construction, renovation, or physical modifications should take place within a household where a
Despite widespread access to scientific knowledge and rational frameworks, superstitions continue to influence everyday behavior across cultures and demographics. From
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