Greetings all,

Today, November 24th is the start of the ancient Roman festival of Brumalia:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brumalia

https://www.ancient-origins.net/history-ancient-traditions/busy-romans-needed-mid-winter-break-too-and-it-lasted-24-days-007233

According to the ancient calendar the Brumalia started today and went through the festival of Saturnalia, which went from Dec. 17th through Dec. 21st. During Byzantine times the Brumalia was celebrated by Justinian I and Empress Theodora, and it continued to be celebrated right up to the 11th century. Justinian and others Christianized it of course and it seems to have become a "fall going into Christmas" festival, leading to the Winter Solstice. 

The "Book of Ceremonies" written by Emperor Constantine Porphyrogenitos details the celebration of the Brumalia, which included feasting and monetary gifts from the Emperor to all magistrates. 

I'm personally considering this "ancient Thanksgiving", and am celebrating accordingly!  :)

-Marcus Cassius Julianus