Saint Catherine's Day
November 25, 2026
What is Saint Catherine's Day?
Saint Catherine's Day is celebrated on November 25 every year and commemorates the martyrdom of Catherine of Alexandria, the patron saint of single women. It is also an opportunity to make taffy, a sweet tradition that dates back to the era of New France.
A special date linked to unmarried women, since it honors the patron saint of "marriageable girls". Saint Catherine's Day is celebrated all over the world and remains a festive tradition that is more or less popular. In the north of France, it is also a celebration for girls, who give each other cards or letters on this occasion.
Who is Saint Catherine?
Saint Catherine is in fact Catherine of Alexandria. Born into a noble family, she converted to Christianity, according to legend, following a vision. It is even said that the young woman was united with Christ in a platonic way, which explains why she rejected the marriage proposal of the emperor Maxentius. Furious with rage, he condemned her to death and finally decided to behead her on a November 25.
Origin of Saint Catherine's Day
The origin of the Saint Catherine tradition dates back to the Middle Ages. At that time, single young women aged 25 wore eccentric costumes and hats and went in procession before a statue of Saint Catherine to adorn it with flowers, ribbons and hats...
They combed the hair of Saint Catherine in the hope of finding a husband.
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