Saturnalia was an ancient Roman festival. It honoured of the god Saturn. It was held on 17 December of the Julian calendar. Later it lasted longer, through to 23 December. The holiday was celebrated with a sacrifice at the Temple of Saturn, in the Roman Forum, and a public banquet. There was private gift-giving, continual partying, and a carnival atmosphere. Gambling was permitted, and masters served their slaves. A common custom was the election of a "King of the Saturnalia". The poet Catullus called it "the best of days".
Saturnalia
Questions and Answers
Q: Who was Saturnalia celebrated for?
A: Saturnalia was celebrated for the god Saturn.
Q: When was Saturnalia celebrated in the Julian calendar?
A: Saturnalia was celebrated on 17 December of the Julian calendar.
Q: Did Saturnalia last longer than 17 December?
A: Yes, Saturnalia later lasted longer, through to 23 December.
Q: How was Saturnalia celebrated?
A: Saturnalia was celebrated with a sacrifice at the Temple of Saturn, a public banquet, private gift-giving, continual partying, and a carnival atmosphere.
Q: Was gambling allowed during Saturnalia?
A: Yes, gambling was permitted during Saturnalia.
Q: Did masters serve their slaves during Saturnalia?
A: Yes, during Saturnalia, masters served their slaves.
Q: Was there a custom of electing a "King of the Saturnalia"?
A: Yes, a common custom during Saturnalia was the election of a "King of the Saturnalia".