Who would have imagined that a tradition begun centuries ago, one now extinct in western France, would remain alive in "The Illinois Country" of Illinois and Missouri? The Guillanee, a Celtic, pre-Christian tradition of sharing food and bounty amongst the entire community during winter, began in Europe as a gesture of charity over two thousand years ago. In France, it also brought the community together to celebrate the New Year to express joy for life. This presentation will explore the European and Canadian roots of this Southern Illinois tradition of food and music.