Time:
Celebrated each year on the Summer Solstice
Background:
Long ago, during a time of famine, a radiant white sheep with golden eyes wandered into the valley.
It led the desperate shepherds to a lush, hidden pasture that still feeds the flocks of Woolhaven to this day.
In gratitude, the townsfolk established the Festival of the Golden Fleece to honor the mysterious creature and celebrate the prosperity brought by their sheep.
Festival Events:
Weaving of Wishes:
In the days leading up to the festival, the town's children braid small bands of wool, whispering their hopes and dreams into each thread.
On the festival day, these are tied to the Wish Tree in the town square – a gnarled old tree believed to be blessed by the spirit of the golden sheep.
Procession of the Flocks:
The shepherds lead their finest sheep through the streets in a grand parade. The animals are adorned with colorful ribbons and tiny bells.
Special reverence is given to white sheep with unusual markings – they are said to carry a “Golden Soul.”
Dance of the Spinners:
At twilight, the town’s spinners and weavers perform a circular dance, trailing golden-dyed threads behind them.
Catching a thread is said to bring luck and inspiration in the year to come.
Offering of the Harvest:
As night falls, the community gathers to burn a finely woven wool tapestry in a ceremonial fire.
While it burns, the Legend of the Golden Lamb is told – a poetic tale of hope, hardship, and woolly salvation, accompanied by flutes and strings made from traditional sheep gut.
Feast of Cheese and Moonwine:
The celebration includes a feast centered around sheep’s milk delicacies: fresh flatbreads, a variety of cheeses, and the rare Moonwine – a lightly sweet mead brewed only for this night.
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