Birthday and Name Day

Birthday and Name Day among the Frostborn

 

Birthday – A Day for the Mother

The birthday is not considered a personal celebration for the child, but rather a day of honor for the mother. It marks the moment when the hardships of childbirth are acknowledged—the physical challenge, the patience, and the strength required to bring a life into the world.  

• Young children gift their mother handmade figures or drawings.
• Teenagers express their gratitude in various ways—some with words, others with small gestures or offerings.
• Adult children visit their mother and bring practical, useful gifts such as preserved food, household items, or furs.

  The day is quiet but meaningful: a reflection on one’s origins, with the mother at the center.  

Name Day – A Day for the Child

The name day, by contrast, is the child’s personal celebration. It marks the day when a newborn officially receives their name—usually a few weeks after birth.  

• The child receives gifts from family and friends as a sign of recognition for surviving the early phase of life and joining the community.
• The name day is celebrated annually from then on.
• Common traditions include small gifts, shared meals, or visits. Especially in adulthood, it is a day for heartfelt appreciation and encouragement.

  The name day is not a grand festivity, but a warm, friendly occasion that honors the person through their name—quiet, sincere, and woven into the lifestyle of the Frostborn.