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 would show up at houses and sing for the residents. As part of the tradition, the residents then provided refreshments for the singers as they visited.
For more on this annual tradition, please see this week’s print edition.