Saturnalia

Saturnalia was an ancient Roman festival held in December to honor the god Saturn. It was characterized by merrymaking, gift-giving, feasting, and role reversals, where slaves and masters sometimes exchanged roles. The holiday fostered a sense of community and relaxation from normal social norms. Celebrated from December 17th for several days, Saturnalia influenced later winter festivities, including Christmas traditions. It was a time of joy, excess, and social inversion, reflecting both religious devotion and communal celebration within Roman society.