Mari Lwyd

Mari Lwyd

Mari Lwyd is a folk custom found in South Wales. The tradition entails the use of an eponymous hobby horse which is made from a horse’s skull mounted on a pole and carried by an individual hidden under a sackcloth. It represents a regional variation of a hoodening horse.

History

The origins of the Mari Lwyd can be traced back to ancient Celtic celebrations of the New Year. The tradition is believed to bring good luck. People made a horse figure from a horse's skull, a wooden pole, white sheet, and adorned it with colourful ribbons and bells. This figure was then carried from house to house, singing and challenging the families inside to a battle of rhyming insults in Welsh. After the so-called "battle", the group would be invited into the house for refreshments.

Modern Celebrations

While the Mari Lwyd was most commonly celebrated over the Christmas and New Year period, it is now often associated with Twelfth Night. Some aspects of the tradition have evolved over time. In some celebrations, the Mari Lwyd is a central figure of a larger parade or festival. In others, the rhyming battles have been replaced with a more straightforward performance of traditional Welsh songs.

Cultural Significance

The Mari Lwyd is one of the most potent symbols of Welsh cultural identity. It is a reminder of the country's Celtic roots and its unique traditions. The custom has experienced a revival in recent years, becoming a popular feature of cultural festivals and events.

See Also

• Hoodening
• Wassailing
• Mummers Play