The Wheel of the Year

design from www.magicalomaha.com/dryadhomedecor.htm

We celebrate the 8 Sabbats as a Circle

Samhain (also called November Eve) - October 31
(pronounced sow, to rhyme with cow, and win=sow'win) also known as Halloween. This is a major holiday; we honor the achievements of the past year, celebrate the ancestors, welcome those just born and morn those who have died. We also contact the spirits of the mighty dead. It is sometimes called the Witches' New Year.

Yule at the Winter Solstice -- December 21/22
The longest night and the birthday of the sun. We watch the sun set and burn the Yule log through the long night as we midwife the rebirth of the sun, then gather at dawn to sing the sun up. Many of us have a Yule tree which represents the Tree of Life and regeneration. Gift giving is always encouraged.

Imbolc (also called Brigid) - February 1
At this time we honor Brigid, or Bhride, or Bride, the goddess of the forge, the flame and the well. She is also the goddess of work, healing and poetry. We celebrate the gentle signs of early spring and the light returning after the darkness of winter.

Ostara at the Vernal Equinox - March 21/22
At the equinox we honor the Goddess of Spring. We plant gardens and sow seeds in both the earth and our lives. We celebrate the renewal of life, the endless cycle of rebirth, which is symbolized by the egg and honor the balance of night and day.

Beltaine (also called May Eve) -- May 1
Also called May Day. We dance around the Maypole, weaving our ribbons and leap the Beltane fire for fertility, creativity and love of all kinds, and healing.

Litha or Midsummer at the Summer Solstice -- June 21/22
The longest night and the death of the Sun-King. We watch the sun set and celebrate the beauty and midsummer.

Lughnasadh, Lammas or First Harvest (also called August Eve) August 1
The time of early harvest when we rejoice in the first fruits of the season and prepare for the coming winter.

Mabon or Second Harvest at the Autumnal Equinox -- September 21/22
This is our harvest festival where we celebrate and give thanks for our abundance. We feast and plant our winter gardens and remember to slow down, to rest and enjoy all of our blessings at this time of balance, especially our family and friends.

text modified from Wheel of the Year by Vibra Willow