Celtic Holidays

PaganCeltic holidays are linked to the natural cycles of the year. The holidays have been held for thousands of years during specific times of the year that mark a change in nature. Like an equinox. These ancient pagan traditions, closely intertwined with farming and seasonal living, provide a profound spiritual experience and an opportunity to honor our ancestors. The secret of Celtic holidays? Both humans and animals sense when it is time for a Celtic holiday.

 

Samhain marks the end of the Celtic year and is celebrated as the feast of the dead. It is a time when the veil between the worlds is thin and communication with ancestors became ritually possible. It is the end of autumn and the beginning of the dark days of winter. Nature has finished flowering, the leaves turn orange, the days are shorter, the evenings colder. Winter stood for death. In history, it was also the time when the harvest was gathered and everything was prepared for the dark winter. When you walk in nature you see exactly when it is time for Samhain. Rituals include lighting bonfires, placing food for the spirits, and remembering deceased loved ones.

 

Imbolc marks the end of winter and the beginning of spring. It's finally here, sunny days come through now and then and if you're lucky, you can sit outside in the sun. It is a celebration of purification, renewal and the awakening of the earth. Lighting candles, making Brigid's crosses and blessing seeds are common rituals performed to welcome the arrival of new life. When you walk into nature you see exactly when it is time for Imbolc, it is the moment when many people are tired of winter. This is a natural reaction.

 

Ostara falls on the vernal equinox and symbolizes rebirth and fertility of both humans (animals) and the land they live on. It is a time to celebrate the balance between light and darkness as the days grow longer. Ostara rituals include decorating eggs, planting seeds, and creating altars with flowers and spring colors. With Ostara the first young animals are born and the first spring green comes up. A great time to go outside more often, nature is calling.

 

Beltane marks the height of spring and the beginning of summer. It is celebrated as a fertility festival honoring nature. We celebrate Beltane with bonfires, dances and rituals to receive the blessing of fertility and abundance. You can also take early morning walks with Beltane, pick flowers and decorate your altar. Around this time of year you prefer to be outside as much as possible and nature is full of life.

 

Litha falls on the summer solstice, marking the longest day of the year. It is a time to celebrate the power of the sun and honor the bounty of nature. Rituals for Litha include lighting bonfires, gathering medicinal herbs, and enjoying the outdoors to soak up the abundant energy of summer.

 

Lughnasadh, also known as Lammas, marks the beginning of harvest time. It is a celebration of gratitude for the first fruits of the land. Making wreaths, sharing food, and performing rituals to honor the past year's bounty and hard work are hallmarks of this holiday.

 

Mabon falls on the autumnal equinox and symbolizes the transition to the dark season. It is a time to celebrate the harvest and show gratitude for the abundance in our lives. Mabon can be celebrated with harvest altars, sharing food with friends and family, gratitude and letting go.

 

These traditional Celtic holidays offer you the opportunity to connect with nature, honor the seasons and strengthen your spiritual connection to the past. Participating in rituals and celebrating these holidays can give you a deeper understanding of your ancestors, the cycle of life, and your place in the world and universe. You can celebrate the Celtic holidays alone or together in your own way.