October 15: what not to do according to the belief

October 15, 2026 according to the national calendar - Kupriyan and Ustinya, or Kupriyanov Day. The Orthodox calendar commemorates the Hieromartyr Cyprian, the martyr Justina and the martyr Theoktistus. In Russia, the date was associated with the protection of the house from evil forces, autumn troubles and weather observations. According to natural phenomena, they tried to determine whether cold will come soon and what winter will be like.

The name is associated with the memory of the Hieromartyr Cyprian and the martyr Justina. In the folk tradition, they were revered as protectors from witchcraft and evil forces, so the day was accompanied by special beliefs and everyday customs.

By mid-October, the peasants were completing the main fieldwork and preparing for winter. People watched the wind, frost and leaffall, trying to understand when the cold weather would set.

According to the weather and natural phenomena in Kupriyanov, the day was judged about the coming winter:

In the old days, this day was dedicated to household chores and needlework. Women sewed, knitted, embroidered and prepared dowries, and peasants completed the preparation of the farm for the cold.

It was also customary to pay attention to the house, maintain order and spend time with the family. In the folk tradition, peace and kindness were considered important conditions for family well-being.

According to some traditions, on October 15, it was not recommended:

On October 15, Orthodox Christians remember the Hieromartyr Cyprian, the martyr Justina and the martyr Theoctistus. According to church tradition, Cyprian converted to Christianity thanks to Justina’s steadfastness and subsequently devoted himself to the service of the Church.

In folk culture, the memory of these saints was eventually associated with protection from witchcraft and evil intentions.