February 2nd is Candlemas Day.
This ancient festival marks the midpoint of winter, halfway between the shortest day and the spring equinox.
In pre-Christian times, this day was known as the 'Feast of Lights' and celebrated the increase strength of the life-giving sun as winter gave way to spring.
How did the 2nd February come to be called Candlemas?
It was the day of the year when all the candles, that were used in the church during the coming year, were brought into church and a blessing was said over them - so it was the Festival Day (or 'mass') of the Candles.
Candles were important in those days not only because there was no electric lights. Some people thought they gave protection against plague and illness and famine.
Candlemas Day Weather-lore, beliefs and sayings
People believe that Candlemas Day predicted the weather for the rest of the winter. The weather proverbs express the idea that a fine bright sunny Candlemas day means that there is more winter to come, whereas a cloudy wet stormy Candlemas day means that the worst of winter is over.
If Candlemas Day be fair and brightFarmer's Proverbs
'A farmer should, on Candlemas Day,
In America the same story is told about the groundhog or woodchuck.