The New Year’s celebration started in 1722 by some of the state’s earliest settlers will again be held on Tuesday, Dec. 31 in Prairie du Rocher.
La Guiannee, which translates to “Mistletoe of the New Year,” began as a Druid celebration of the winter solstice many centuries ago in Europe. The custom was brought to North America by the French settlers.
In early Prairie du Rocher, with this tradition, a group of singers visited houses and sang for the residents. As part of the tradition, the residents then provided refreshments for the singers at each stop. They sang traditional French songs, as well as the La Guiannee song, which can only be heard at this time.
For more information on La Guiannee, please see this week’s print edition.