Distaff Day facts for kids

Distaff Day, also known as Roc Day or Rock Day, is celebrated on January 7th. This special day comes right after the Christian holiday of Epiphany. It is also sometimes called Saint Distaff's Day. This unofficial holiday was important in many Catholic countries long ago.

What is Distaff Day?

Distaff Day marks the day when women traditionally went back to work after the Christmas holidays. For many centuries, women spent their evenings spinning thread. They would also carry a drop spindle with them during the day. This helped them make thread from raw materials like wool or cotton.

The Distaff and Women's Work

The word "distaff" refers to a tool used in spinning. It is a stick that holds the fibers (like wool or flax) before they are spun into thread. The distaff became a symbol of women's work and their important role in the household. Making thread was a vital task. It was the only way to get material for weaving cloth.

Men's Turn: Plough Monday

Just as women had Distaff Day, men had their own special day to return to work. This day is called Plough Monday. It is the first Monday after Epiphany. On this day, men were expected to go back to their farm work, especially plowing fields. Sometimes, Distaff Day and Plough Monday happen on the same day.

Fun and Pranks

Historically, both men and women enjoyed playing jokes on each other during these celebrations. The famous poet Robert Herrick wrote about these pranks. His poem, "St. Distaff's Day," describes the playful tricks people would play. This poem was even turned into music in the 20th century.

Distaff Day Today

Today, some modern craft groups celebrate Distaff Day. They gather to honor the old traditions of spinning and fiber arts. These gatherings are a fun way to connect with history. They also celebrate the skills of making things by hand. People come together in local fiber communities to share their love for crafts.