The tradition of making the white horse ("šyvis") jump in Gražiškiai

Making the white horse (šyvis) jump, the Twelve Days of Christmas’ ritual reminiscent of the carnival of Mardi Gras (Užgavėnės), is mentioned in written sources since the 18th century. The tradition, which may have originated in Prussia, is still celebrated in the town of Gražiškiai in the Vilkaviškis district, where the custom has been transmitted through generations to this day.

The main character of the ritual, the white horse (šyvis), is embodied by a man wearing a rider’s outfit and a mask of the white horse (šyvis) attached to his waist. Accompanied by a large group of masqueraders, this character visits the courtyards of many households, wishing health, happiness and a prosperous year. The entourage is led by a “leader” who asks the householders if they would like to see the white horse (šyvis) jumping. If the hosts agree, the broommaker sweeps the grounds, where the soldiers soon march in to pay their respects to the hosts, sing a song and then line up to guard the grounds. A test is then set up for the white horse (šyvis), who must jump over a bench, chair or other step to demonstrate his agility. The other participants in the procession are also impressive – a bear led by a bear-man, a devil. Some of the characters daunt onlookers, wrestle with each other, while others pull pranks and smear people’s faces with soot.

Every year, intensive preparations are made for this happening – masks are revamped or newly made, soldiers’ uniforms are tidied up, rehearsals are held. The seasoned participants teach the young men, who act as the soldiers, the “soldier’s song”, marching, respect for arms and other elements of the custom. The most important thing is to be competent in the chosen role playing and to improvise boldly and creatively.

The community of Gražiškiai believes that the white horse (šyvis) brings light and good into the home, so it is an honour to welcome the masqueraders into their homes or to take part in the group that makes the white horse (šyvis) jump. The custom is a source of pride for the people of Gražiškiai and an important part of their identity, as evidenced by the white horse (šyvis) depicted in the town’s coat of arms.

Submission by Cultural and Museum Centre of Vilkaviškis, Suvalkija (Sūduva) district, 2022

Tradition bearers – Gražiškiai community