Dioskoureia
Castor and Pollux: Horses, Competition, and The Sea
Dioskoureia is the festival of the Divine Twins, Castor and Pollux. It is a festival that celebrates friendly competitions, the love shared by siblings, as well as a festival that honors sailors and the sea. Occurring annually on Endyspoitropios 11th, it is a day best celebrated with others.
symbols & Decore
hair binding / veiling
Not Recommended
Jewelry / Adornments
Not Recommended
foods of significance
Red or Pink Wine
Indulgent Desserts
Fried or Grilled Fish (If This Aligns With Your Practice)
colors of significance
Brown
White
Navy Blue
symbols of significance
Horses
Imagery Relating to Sailors and the Sea
Stars and Constellations (Specifically the Gemini Constellation)
history vs modern day
According to Pythio.Notion:
"The Dioskouria is a festival associated with the divine twins, Castor and Polydeuces – the Dioskouroi. The Dioskouroi are patrons of young men and are associated with athletics events and war dances. In the festivals dedicated to them, the twins are summoned to a table laid with food, either at individual homes or public hearths. They are known to be master horse trainers, and are described as deliverers of men and ships during storms. Shipmen call upon them with offerings, and their appearance in the sky brings calm to the sea."
TTemple Hyacinthus observes Dioskouria during the month of Endyspoitropios - this conflicts with the historic precedent as Disokouria was most likely celebrated in Heraios. While it makes sense to celebrate the Disokouria during Heraios, as that is the start of Gemini season, the Temple has moved the holiday to Endyspoitropios so that it occurs during the month in which we honor Lord Poseidon. This choice was made to better align the festivals themes of horses and the sea to the ritual months, as set by the Temple.
Foot-races and similarly friendly competitions are encouraged on this day, especially those held along costal shores and on sandy beaches. Honoring Castor and Pollux is paramount on this Holy Day - and including Lord Poseidon in your rituals and worship is also auspicious.