Andrzejki - the magic of fortune telling and traditions

Andrzejki is one of the most magical holidays on the Polish calendar. It is a time of fortune-telling and games that are traditionally meant to help uncover the mysteries of the future, especially regarding love and marriage. Although today andrzejki is more of an entertainment event, its roots go back to ancient beliefs and rituals. What is the history of this holiday and what fortune-telling we can carry out on the evening of Andrew's Day.

A brief history of Andrews

The tradition of St. Andrew's Day dates back to the Middle Ages and was particularly popular among ladies at birth. Saint Andrew, the patron saint of the day, was considered to be the protector of marriage and love, so the Androids divination was primarily to indicate the future husband. In the past, divination was taken very seriously and took place in silence and concentration. It was believed that the night before St.

Andrew's Day was particularly magical, and fortune telling had the greatest power. Over time, the tradition evolved and gained a more playful character, in which both women and men could participate. Nowadays, St. Andrew's Day is a great opportunity to meet with friends and have fun together.

Most popular fortune telling

1. Wax pouring
This is the most popular fortune teller of St. Andrew's Day. Wax melted in a pot is poured through a keyhole onto cold water. Once solidified, the wax figure casts a shadow on the wall, and its shape is interpreted as a symbol of the future. For example, a figure resembling a ship can mean a journey, and a heart can mean a new love.

2. Shoes lined up
Participants take off their shoes and line them up, starting from the farthest corner of the room toward the door. The person whose shoe is the first to cross the threshold will be the first to get married or will begin a new chapter in life.

3. Ring on a thread
A ring is hung on a thread and held over a glass of water. If the ring starts to move, the number of beats against the rim of the glass indicates how many years are left until the wedding or other important event.

4. Name cards
Cards with the names of potential future partners are put under the pillow. In the morning, one of them is drawn at random - the name on the card is supposed to indicate the future love interest.

5. Drawing of items
Various trinkets, such as a coin, a ring, a leaf or a key, are put into a bag. Each item symbolizes something different (e.g. wealth, marriage, travel). Pulling out an object indicates what awaits the person in the future.

Andrzejki in the modern day

Today's androgyny is often themed parties held in homes, restaurants or clubs. Divination has become a form of entertainment that integrates participants and adds to the charm of the evening. Tarot cards, pendulums or divination apps are increasingly used.