Maiden's Day

A celebration that coincides with the spring equinox, Maidens’ Day recognizes the passage of all sixteen year-old girls to womanhood. Several days of prayer, fasting and communal activities culminate in a crowning ceremony. Several days of community-centered festivals typically follow. After Maiden’s Day, girls (new women) leave their mother’s homes and move into domiciles set up by matriarchs in their area and are accepted as equals.