In ancient Rome, the earth-goddess Tellus or (Tellus-Mater) was honored annually on this day. A pregnant cow was traditionally sacrificed at her sacred festival and the unborn calf burned in a bonfire to ensure the fertility of the crops.
The Festival of the Iron Phallus (Kanamara Matsuri) is celebrated in Kawasaki City, Japan annually on this day. The ancient Japanese deities associated with sexuality and reproduction give their sacred blessings and encouragement, especially to couples who wed late in life, or men who suffer from declining potency.