Stirring up the Snow with Snow Day Superstitions

Weather-control rituals have been a part of human culture for centuries. While these rituals have diminished in significance over time, some traditions have continued, especially when it comes to snow. For students, snow days bring the hope of a break from school, and many believe their unique superstitions play a role in making it happen. 

Though students do not perform elaborate rituals to summon a snowstorm, many continue to perform their simple traditions in hopes of a delayed start or day off from school. Popular rituals include wearing pajamas inside-out and backwards or sleeping with a spoon under one’s pillow. 

Although students know these traditions cannot actually bring snow, they hold on to the hope that they might contribute in some small way to a snowfall large enough to close school for the day. Sophomore Ella Smith makes sure to flush ice down the toilet the night before any expected snowstorm. She says, “I always complete my pre-snow ritual on the off chance that it actually works, even if it is a little wacky.” 

Sophomore Virginia Gaston is equally dedicated to her snow superstitions. “I know they might seem silly,” she says. “But they give me hope and excitement for the upcoming snow day. Something about eating frozen grapes and sleeping with a spoon under my pillow makes me feel like I am doing my part to will the snow day into existence.”

Fortunately for students, their snow superstitions seem to have worked for the first time in three years. While there was minimal snow and ice, the forecast for winter weather was so foreboding that the administration canceled school for the day to ensure everyone’s safety. This surprised most students since the snow was not expected to start until the afternoon and a half-day was already on the schedule. Freshman Arizona Smith stated, “I was super excited to have an unexpected long weekend to relax and hang out with friends, especially since I did not think we were actually going to get the day off.”

While most students deny the magic of these superstitions, some continue to believe their rituals helped bring these flurries to Charlotte. Whether or not these superstitions played a role in the unexpected day off, students agree that the snow day was a wonderful surprise and hope there are a few more remaining this year.