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.

Previous
Previous

Kalokaíri

Next
Next

Hyakíntha