Reclamation Day

This day commemorates the day that the land that Hilston was built on was "reclaimed" by Aranthar and cleared of the monsters that there, making way for the building of the city. The day starts off with a speech from the head of the traders council, then a large market and mini tourney. Then at night adults wear masks of monsters, and children slay them with sword getting candy as a reward. The night end with a large fireworks display.

History

Reclamation day was originally an unofficial holiday in most of Eroth shorty after it's founding.   Hilston declared it an official Holiday in 376 when the Blank Land invasion ended and Eroth abandoned Emic.  Anit-Erothoian tensions were high, and the people wanted an official day to celebrate the city.  Since founding day was actually the day Eroth was established, they chose reclamation day.

Execution

The day begins with an official speech by the leader of Hilston (Usually the head of the trader's council). 
Then there is a large market, where many traders forma ll voer attend and sell wares from all over Emic and Nor.  It is the one of the largest markets of the year and is usually well attended.  In addition to selling wares street performers of all kind attend, from simple gleemen, to master bards.  
As twilight falls, the adults take to the street dressed in Monster masks.  The children, armed with wooden swords and shield they go out and slay the monsters. After they slay a monster that monster reward them with candy or treats or for some of the richer folk, even copper.  This is to commemorate the clearing of the land of monsters, makes the region safe for the city to be built.
Full darkness then brings on a large fireworks display.

Components and tools

Masks are a big part of the celebration.  Most stores start selling mask up to a month ahead of the holiday, while there are some places dedicated just to making elaborate masks.  The quality and complexity of you mask if a direct symbol of your social class.  The richer you are the more elaborate and expensive you mask should be.  Even among the poor, a mask if an indicator of social status.

Observance

The ceremonies take place the 21st of the Hydra, each year.

Primary Related Location

Hilston