Saturday, February 21, 2009

Lupercalia 2009 Schedule

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 21

10am - Lupercal Cave - Lupercalia Ritual and The Running of the Luperci

In celebration of this most ancient of festivals we will be performing the official Rite of Faunus Lupercus, for Faunus Lupercus, God of the Wilds and Lupa, the shewolf who nourished the founding fathers Romulus and Remus. After the rite, we will have the Running of The Luperci - half-naked youths who bless the young ladies of the city. The women will line the path to the city gates, to submit to being lightly flogged with goatskin floggers in hopes of fertility (both of mind and body).


12 noon - Forum - Presentation of the Legion, and the Escort of Venus

The Legio, in a time honored military display, will present arms (and their new uniforms) to our Imperator Julian Augustus. This presentation will be attended by the lovely Goddess Venus, who will be escorted to the baths where citizens may consult Her. Don't miss your chance to see our beloved Imperator!


12:30ish - Baths of Caracalla - Ask Venus

Our lovely Goddess Venus will hold court in the Baths of Caracalla for those who seek council about matters of love and romance! Please join us with your questions, or just to hang out and hear what others wish to know. No question is too personal or trivial - Venus will answer them all!


2pm - Gardens of Maecenas - Lovelorn Date Auction

Need a lovely or handsome valentine for this day of love and romance? Then bring your lindens and bid on the avatar of your dreams and win a date! Or perhaps you'd rather put yourself on the auction block and trust to fate. Perhaps you'll meet the one you've always dreamed of partnering! The proceeds go to The Collegia Religio Romana to help bring you more of these wonderful festivals.


SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 22

9am - Ludus - Lecture on Roman Military Life

The Commanders of the Legio will demonstrate and discuss the rigors of military life. Topics will include organization, uniforms, equipment, and much more. Don't miss this opportunity to learn more about Roman Military life!


10am - Ludus - Gladiatorial Games

Come cheer for your favorite gladiator or gladiatrix! The battles of grit and determination are sure to entertain. Sponsored by the Ludus Dacicus Gladiatorii, in honor of Lupercalia.


12noon - Senator Hunt

Can't find a Senator when you need one? Now's your chance! Sponsered by the Senate Curia, we will hunt the senators through ROMA, ROMA Subura, and ROMA Transtiberim in the manner of a foxhunt. Prizes will be awarded to the one who has tagged the most politicos.


4pm - Grand Feast and Sweetheart Gift Show and Tell

To top off this festival weekend, we have The Grand Feast of Lupercalia! This is your chance to show off the gift sent to you by your mystery sweetheart, and dance till the sun comes up. We promise you a wild time - and clothing will be optional. ;)

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