" you start in april and cross to the time of may
one has you as it leaves, one as it comes
since the edges of these months are yours and defer
to you, either of them suits your praises.
the circus continues and the theatre's lauded palm,
let this song, too, join the circus spectacle. ” — ovid, fasti ( V.185-190 )
whereas most festivals were strictly for the elite, FLORALIA was for the enjoyment of the common folk. celebrated from april 28th to may 3rd, it was the time of year to let loose, forget your worries, and take a moment to appreciate the beauty nature has to offer as the center figure of the festival was flora, the roman goddess of flowers
traditionally, the floralia's most important aspect were its games. competitive events with big prizes, everyone wanted to participate. other features of note were the release of goats and rabbits, as well as various theatrical performances that ... may or may not have been performed naked. it was customary to wear colourful clothing to represent the frivolous nature of the festival and " sprightly flora's ritual fun and festal jests "
much as the spirit of the floralia festival was one of lighthearted bliss, so too is the carnival associated with it much less intimidating than a fancy gala or an intimate blind date. you’re much more likely to run into children running around the maypole or a dad sneezing from the pollen than any snobby glitz or glam, and it offers the opportunity for relaxation without expectation. the pretty pastel pink envelope that’s slipped under your doorstep is hardly scary, either, simply extending an invitation to enjoy the spring air and blooming gardens in central park this coming weekend
for those favouring a faster paced way of life, the carnival perhaps might be lacking — boasting a petting zoo, picnic area, and extensive variety of blooming gardens just asking to be admired, it’s not the most exciting roster for some. and while there is large selection of outdoor games and booths to pick from, and an open air stage, the sugary sweet atmosphere doesn’t offer much in the way of chaotic revelry ( unless you’d like to show up naked and carry on the tradition, that is ) but, regardless of intensity, the carnival promises a fun time in the spring air and some cute goats, so what’s not to like ?
the event will take place IC in the middle of traditional floralia celebrations, on SATURDAY, MAY 1ST
OOC, the event will start on WEDNESDAY, APRIL 28TH. in line with our relaxed activity rules, we’ll give you three weeks, until WEDNESDAY MAY 19TH for threads. of course, feel free to continue threads past this date, but make sure to refrain from posting any new starters
as always, please attempt to plot with as many people as possible, and reply to the open starters posted in the tags so that nobody feels left out
and finally, please post any event content under #theikosevent003, including showing off any outfits if you so wish, and any event starters under #theikoseventstarter !
