Septerion
Apollo’s Defeat of the Python
Septerion, is a festival held in celebration of Lord Apollo's mythic victory of The Python, and his claiming of Sacred Oracle of Delphi. Held every year on Ilaios 23, the festival is a celebration of strength, perseverance, and the God Apollo himself.
symbols & Decore
hair binding / veiling
Not Recommended
Jewelry / Adornments
Not Recommended
foods of significance
Grilled or Charred Foods
Mediterranean Inspired Dishes and Cuisine
Simple Desserts and Baked Goods
colors of significance
Gold
Green
Yellow
symbols of significance
Snake Imagery
Symbols Honoring Lord Apollo
Symbols of Divination
history vs modern day
According to Pythio.Notion:
"Septerion is a purification and atonement festival [...] It is linked to the Pythian games, as it’s said that the laurels cut at Tempe were awarded to the games victors [...] During the festival, a child of aristocratic origin - whose parent are both alive - impersonates Apollon and leads a procession to the sanctuary of Apollon at Delphi. The child sets fire to a wooden structure beneath the temple of Apollon, which is said to symbolise the dwelling of Python. He is then led in a procession to the Thessalian Tempe valley, where he undergoes a ritual cleansing and makes accompanying sacrifices in the river Peneius."
The Temple of Hyacinthus chooses to honor this day by retelling the story of Lord Apollo's defeat over the Python, and reenacting it's defeat through a ritual bonfire at dusk. During the day, we encourage games involving physical strength, dexterity, and movement. This can be a multi-faceted competition, or a simple game of catch - all acts of athleticism and competition are encouraged.
Learn more about the myth of Apollo and The Python on Theoi.com.