Hermeia

Athenian Calendar Dates: 4th of each Attic month
Honouring: Hermes
Origin: ‘Hermaea’ festivals were celebrated annually in different locations such as Arcadia, Athens, and Cydonia. These festivals differed in their purpose as well, such as honouring Hermes as a patron of sport and gymnastics (Arcadia) or for competitions (Athens).

What is Hermeia?

At the Sanctuary of the Crossroads, we celebrate Hermeia as a monthly festival honouring Hermes in his aspects of Enodios (of the crossroads), patron of travellers, Khthonios (of the Earth or Underworld), and Psychopomp (Guide of Souls).

Offerings to Hermes

• Honey
• Milk
• Olive oil
• Wine and water
• Cakes
• Fruits
• Strawberries
• Coins (local and foreign)
• Coffee
• Chocolate
• Written messages or letters
• Mail
• Caduceus symbols
• Incense (e.g. frankincense, myrrh, sandalwood)
• Feathers
• Votive offerings of rams, hares, hawks, cows, turtles

Ways to Celebrate Hermeia

• Give offerings to Hermes
• Research about Hermes and his roles/epithets
• Dedicate your exercise or any participation in sports to him
• Dedicate your competitions to him
• Do an act of kindness for someone else
• Dedicate your travels or petition his protection for travels
• Write him a hymn or story
• Recite hymns and myths about Hermes
• Write a letter for a friend or family member
• Study a new language
• Learn a new sport or kind of exercise
• Practice public speaking
• Play a game (board game, video game, tabletop game)
• Donate to the homeless
• Learn about animal husbandry
• Visit a farm
• Do readings or divination for others
• Leave a coin at the crossroads
• Deliver messages that you are trusted with

Celebrating Hermeia at the Sanctuary of the Crossroads

At the Sanctuary, you can celebrate Hermeia by telling us what activities and offerings you are dedicating to Hermes for the day!

Sometimes we might host live events, though on most occasions this is one you can do on your own or with friends.