The Akitu, an annual Babylonian New Year festival celebrating the marriage of Heaven and Earth, begins on this day and lasts for 10 consecutive days.
In ancient times, Greek theatrical performances known as the Urban Dionysia began annually on this day in honor of the god Dionysus. They continued for 5 consecutive days. Also, a festival called the Lesser Panathenaea was held at this time. It was dedicated to the goddess Athena.
Sitala, the goddess who reigns of smallpox and death, is honored on this day in India as part of the Hindu New Year ritual.