The traditional beginning of the English agricultural year, Plough Monday has been observed since the 15th century on the first Monday after Twelfth Day (6 January), or Three Kings Day.

Marking the end of the holiday season, Plough Monday was a holiday and a feast day on the eve of returning to work and normal routines. Men dressed in white smocks decorated with ribbons would drag a plow (plough) through their village donations for a “plow light” that was kept burning at the church throughout the year.

In the evening, many landowners would provide a Plough Supper of beef and ale for their workers.