What is Whitsuntide?

Whitsuntide is the week after Whit Sunday, which is seven weeks after Easter Sunday. Whitsuntide is also synonymous with Pentecost on the Christian calendar. It is celebrated 10 days after the ascension of Jesus.

In contrast to Easter Sunday, Whit Sunday (the beginning of Whitsuntide) is considered unlucky, according to Irish Culture and Customs. People traditionally avoided water on this day, as it was believed that people who came in contact with water would drown. The week before Whitsuntide is also significant in Christianity. This period of time is called Rogation week. Fervent prayers were issued on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday of the week in preparation for Holy Thursday, also called Ascension Day.