Public holiday on Monday - Assumption Day

This Monday, August 15th 2022, is a public holiday in Cyprus to mark the feast day of the Assumption of Mary, which celebrates the Christian belief that God assumed the Virgin Mary into Heaven following her death.

It's also known as the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Dormition of the Most Holy Mother of God (in the eastern countries), or the Feast of the Assumption.

"This day, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, is not a day of mourning for her loss, but a celebration of joy for the union of the mother with her beloved son, the blossoming of nature, the flood of emotions, and the return of people to their native land."

One of the biggest celebrations of Orthodoxy, it is celebrated on or around August 15th in many countries, particularly in parts of Europe and South America.

In Cyprus, the day is marked with religious services and events, plus family gatherings & BBQ's. Thousands of people also try to escape the August heat and head for the mountains for a BBQ/picnic in a long held tradition.

As a public holiday, it also means that banks will be closed, as will government offices. In addition, most general stores/supermarkets & businesses, but not all, will be closed for the day.

Photo By: Phil Parker

Author: NewsinCyprus.com
Added: 10-08-2022