The Pompaia is an obscure yet fascinating festival from the ancient Athenian (Attic) calendar, celebrated during the month of Maimakterion (roughly mid-November to mid-December). Though few records of it survive, scholars and modern Hellenic practitioners have pieced together its likely purpose: a ritual of purification and protection held at the onset of winter’s storms. The name Pompaia  derives from pompe  (πομπή), meaning “procession,” suggesting a ceremonial parade of sa

When we think of ancient Greek festivals, our minds often jump to the grand spectacles—like the Olympic Games or the dramatic...