Happy Hobbit Day! September 22, it’s a grand day and holds a lot of meaning for Tolkien fans around the world as both Bilbo and Frodo Baggins share their birthday today. This also marks the start of Feast Week.
But, what exactly is Feast Week? This fantastically yummy way to celebrate Tolkien’s life and work was begun in 1978 by Anna Maria Polidori, an Italian member of the UK Tolkien Society. Starting every year on September 22, participants follow the first 8 days of Frodo’s journey to Rivendell by cooking meals with the same ingredients (and sometimes, atmosphere) as he did or experienced.
“When they had sung many songs, and talked of many things they had done together, they toasted Bilbo’s birthday, and they drank his health and Frodo’s together according to Frodo’s custom. Then they went out for a sniff of air, and glimpse of the stars, and then they went to bed.”
– The Fellowship of the Ring, Chapter 3: Three is Company
Requirements for Day 1 are pretty clear and simple: wine and a toast, and a short trip outside for fresh air and a look at the stars (or clouds). All other celebrations at whim.
I usually just drink tea, so I’m going to have a second toast later today, but for my personal little celebration now, I found this bottle of italian red wine called Grignolino d’Asti and I think it would be the perfect companion for a meal that is hobbit worthy. Plus, red wine always makes me think about Autumn, which is my favorite season!
The other requirement for today is to do a short trip outside to admire the stars or, in my case, clouds. I’m very lucky to live in the countryside and having a great view from my balcony. My favorite moment of the day is the evening, because I can usually admire some pretty amazing sunsets, especially during those seasons where clouds are big and fluffy.
