On February 2, even the most diehard acknowledge that it’s time to put away the crib, take down the mistletoe and leave the season of Christmas behind. But Candlemas has a positive meaning too: for a start, it’s the day when candles are blessed for use in churches. And, traditionally, in homes: you could bring your candles for a blessing, and then take them home to light at mealtimes on Sundays or feast days. Masses feature processions with lit candles; you might also have a procession at your home.

February 2 is a day packed with theological significance: it’s also known as the feast of the Presentation of Our Lord (a feast known before 1969 as the Purification of Our Lady). The procession marks Our Lord’s entry into the Temple in Jerusalem; the candles signify that he is the light of the world.

If your crib is still up, one tradition is for every member of the household to light their newly blessed candle in front of the Nativity scene and say the Joyful Mysteries of the rosary.