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Mari Lwyd
A horse skull on a pole, draped in white, with glowing eyes. It comes to your door at Christmas and challenges you to a battle of wits. Lose, and you must let it in and give it drink.
Ancient - Present
Wales
5000+ witnesses
The Mari Lwyd is a Welsh Christmas tradition involving a horse skull that visits houses demanding entry through song.
The Legend
According to documented folklore:
The Mari Lwyd:
- Is a decorated horse skull
- Carried on a pole under a sheet
- Visits houses at Christmas
- Demands entry through verse
- An ancient Welsh tradition
Description
The Mari Lwyd consists of:
- A horse’s skull
- On a wooden pole
- Draped in white cloth
- With glass eyes and ribbons
- Operated by a person beneath
The Ritual (Pwnco)
When Mari arrives:
- The party sings for entry
- Householders sing refusals
- This continues back and forth
- A battle of rhyming wit
- Eventually Mari wins or loses
If Mari Wins
The household must:
- Let the party inside
- Provide food and drink
- Entertain the visitors
- Mari may chase people playfully
- General revelry follows
Origin
The tradition may come from:
- Pre-Christian Celtic practices
- Horse worship
- Mid-winter rituals
- Death and rebirth symbolism
- Ancient wassailing customs
Modern Revival
Mari Lwyd continues:
- Still practiced in Wales
- Growing popularity
- Part of Welsh identity
- Featured in festivals