🕊️ The “Days of the Blackbird”: Italian Folklore and Winter Tales from the Dolomites
Between January 29 and 31, Italian folklore marks the arrival of the “Days of the Blackbird” — traditionally known as the coldest days of the year.
Deeply rooted in the rural culture of the Dolomites and beyond, these days blend weather myths, seasonal beliefs, and storytelling.
But where does this curious name come from? And what’s the meaning behind it?
❄️ A Seasonal Tradition Passed Down Through Time
According to the proverb, if the Days of the Blackbird are bitterly cold, spring will arrive early and be beautiful.
If they are mild or warm, spring will come late.
While modern weather statistics don’t confirm this belief, the story continues to live on in Italian mountain folklore, especially in alpine regions where the rhythm of nature has always shaped daily life.
📚 The Legend of the Blackbird
The name comes from a charming legend:
Once upon a time, a female blackbird and her chicks, originally black-feathered like the males of their species, sought shelter in a chimney to escape the freezing temperatures.
After three days hidden away, they emerged on February 1st — alive, but covered in soot.
From that day on, they remained permanently grey, while the males stayed shiny black with orange-yellow beaks.
🔥 January: The Mischievous Month
Another version tells of a clever blackbird who grew tired of January’s tricks.
At that time, January had only 28 days. To avoid his icy winds, the bird stocked up on food and hid for the whole month.
On the 29th, thinking winter was over, she came out to sing. But January, angered by her joy, borrowed three days from February and unleashed snow, wind, and bitter cold.
She took refuge again inside a chimney. When she finally came out, her feathers had turned grey from the smoke, and they never turned black again.
🌿 A Bridge Between Winter and Spring
Today, the Days of the Blackbird are more of a symbolic turning point than a reliable weather forecast.
They represent the clash between winter’s grip and spring’s promise, a time when nature is quiet but full of meaning.
For those in the Dolomites, it’s a moment to reflect on tradition, nature, and the poetic power of storytelling.
📌 Quick Facts Recap
📅 When? January 29–31 (sometimes includes February 1)
❄️ Belief: Cold blackbird days = early spring; warm = delayed spring
🐦 Origin: From a legend about a blackbird hiding from the cold
🔥 Meaning: A story of survival, transformation, and the changing seasons