Ivana Kupala

Today is a quasi-holiday in Slavic Parts of the world called "Ivan Kupal Day." From what I understand, it's a holiday with pagan roots related to the summer solstice and co-opted by the Russian Orthodox Church to mark the birthday of St. John the Baptist. Traditional celebrations include jumping over fires and swimming.

I know the summer solstice was two weeks ago...but the dates got all screwed up with the calendar switch.

The picture above is a Soviet-era poster for Ivan Kupal that I picked up since Ivan Kupal day is also my birthday.

It's also apparently the birthday of Tom at digenis...so go over there and give him some well wishes.