Saturnalia | The origins of Christmas | winter solstice & pagan festivals #explained

Saturnalia was a pagan festival celebrated in Ancient Rome in honor of Saturn, the god of agriculture and time. Held in mid-December, this controversial festival was marked by chaotic revelry, feasting, gambling, and public drunkenness. Traditional social roles were briefly reversed, with masters symbolically serving their slaves—a gesture that highlighted the inequalities of Roman society rather than resolving them. Though often descending into disorder, Saturnalia left a lasting mark on modern winter traditions like Christmas and New Year celebrations. In this video, we explore the history of Saturnalia, its customs, and its influence on modern holidays. Plus, discover how this ancient festival is still observed today in York, UK, through pagan reenactments and events. Join us as we uncover the darker side of this infamous Roman celebration and its enduring legacy! #Saturnalia #AncientRome #PaganFestivals #WinterTraditions #historyuncovered #history #christmas #celebration #christmaseve