Sabbats ( Pagan Holidays )

SAMHAIN | YULE | IMBOLC | OSTARA

BELTANE | MIDSUMMER | LUNASADH | MABON

Samhain - October 31st

Samhain marks the coming of winter.  It is more commonly recognized, by non-Pagans, as Halloween.  This is a date that is often recognized as a time where the barriers between different planes of existence are at their thinnest.  Pagans generally use this as a time of reflection, in memory of departed loved ones.  This Sabbat also marks the symbolic death of the God, who awaits his re-birth with the coming of Yule.

Yule - Winter Solstice (occurs on or near the 21st of December)

Yule is celebrated on the Winter Solstice.  It is on this day that the God is symbolically reborn.  This is the shortest day of the year, and the days continually get longer, after this day.  The sun was often recognized as the symbol of the God, in ancient religions.  Most Pagans believe in reincarnation.  This cycle of life and death for the God, are symbolic of the belief in life from death.

Imbolc - February 1st

Imbolc is a celebration of fertility and purification.  It symbolizes awakening and inspiration.  The God is beginning to grow, and his strength (the Sun) is beginning to be noticeable.

Ostara - Spring Equinox (occurs on or near the 21st of March)

Ostara is the first day of true spring.  The day and night are equal in length.  Plants are budding strongly.  Some ancient Pagan traditions are still practiced on this day, such as coloring eggs (which are a symbol of fertility).

Beltane - April 30th

Beltane is commonly recognized as May Day, by non-Pagans.  It is a celebration of love and desire.  Many flowers and plants are often gathered, as decorations.  The flowers are symbolic of the Goddess.  "May Poles" were often erected (and sometimes still are), as symbols of the God.

Midsummer - Summer Solstice (occurs on or near the 21st of June)

Midsummer is the time of year at which nature is at it's peak strength.  This is a time when many Pagans feel it is best for rituals and spells.  Bonfires are often made, to symbolize and honor the God.

Lunasadh (Lammas) - August 1st

Lunasadh is observed during the beginning of harvest.  Pagans are thankful for the food with which they have been blessed.  Plants are withering, but they are also leaving seeds, a promise of their eventual re-birth.  The God is beginning to weaken and dim with age, as the days grow shorter.

Mabon - Autumn Equinox (occurs on or near the 21st of September)

Mabon is observed at the end of harvest.  The day and night are once again equal in length.  The God is quickly losing strength, and is preparing for his end.  Summer is over, and Winter is quickly approaching.

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