A prolonged bank holiday weekend offers communities and people across the Gallic Empire the chance to come together and celebrate the Saturnalia Festival.

From December 17th to December 27th, the Gallic Empire will observe the Saturnalia Festival, paying homage to Saturn. This festivity, similar to the later Christian Christmas celebrated from December 24th to December 26th, will include ten days of public events and community activities.

Sunday 17 December

Saturnalia Festival: A religious ceremony will take place at the Temple of Minerva and Mars, on the grounds of Georgeton Palace, in honour of the first day of the Saturnalia Festival.

Election of the Princeps Saturnalicus: As part of the annual Saturnalia tradition of role reversal, members of the public will have the opportunity to run for the position of Princeps Saturnalicus this year. The Princeps Saturnalicus, serving as the ceremonial leader of the Saturnalia Festival, is chosen from the public to remind us of Saturnus' reign and guide the festivities.

Monday 19 December

Feast of Opalia: The Feast of Opalia, also known as the Grand Saturnalia Banquet will be a public feast hosted at the Imperial Gardens of Georgeton Palace, to celebrate the Opalia Festival.

Wednesday 20 December

Saturnalia Reception: The Emperor will host a reception at Georgeton Palace, bringing together religious and community leaders from across Gaul, ahead of the Winter Ball.

Saturday 23 December

Winter Ball 2031: On December 23rd, Emperors Nicolas and Alexander, and members of the Imperial Family will attend the annual Winter Ball at Georgeton Palace.

Formerly known as the Saturnalia Ball and later the Christmas Ball, the event will bring together members of the public to celebrate the Saturnalia Festival and the Winter Solstice

Tuesday 26 December