Ancient Rome

To honor their gods, wealthy patricians often paid for festivals that were open to the public. A festival might include street performers and possibly a play. Some public festivals were paid for by the government. Holidays and festivals filled the Roman calendar. For example, the first of every month was a day to celebrate Juno. The ides of the month (either the 13th or 15th depending upon the month) was a day to celebrate Jupiter. Many customs were handed down over the years that we still use to celebrate holidays today. Roman Holiday Customs and Festivals