Plough Monday

Traditionally the first Monday after Epiphany. Back in the 15th Century, this was typically the day people returned to work after Christmas.

From what I understand, a plough would be taken through the village, stopping at each house, where the workers would then join in the procession, ending up in the fields. Although the custom varies from region to region, the procession would normally be accompanied by musicians and dancers.

Nowadays, this festival seems to mostly be celebrated in the villages, but is probably the best day to begin preparing the soil for the Spring planting, whether it be visiting a Garden Centre to obtain compost, or breaking soil on an allotment.