Sabbats, the Witches Holidays of the Old Ways

The eight Sabbats are the "witches" holidays. These rites are observed in a very respectful manner, and all occur at points of the year that link with natural goings on. They are the solstices, equinoxes, and the midpoints in between. Most modern Holidays have been adopted from these more ancient traditions and, like every thing else, have been commercialized. These holidays are meant to honor the powers that be and our relationship with nature and the God and Goddess. The idea is to commune with nature and your fellow man and celebrate the abundance we've been granted.

This is a Quick over view of these holidays giving you some idea of their meaning and the traditional ways of celebrating.

Yule; also known as Winter Solstice, is from December 21^st through the 22^nd. This is the celebration of renewal and rebirth during winter, marking its midpoint. Fires are lit and candles are carried around the circle to honor the return of the Sun God. A special Yule log is decorated and lit to burn from the beginning of the celebration to the end. The Festivity colors are green and red, along with white, silver and gold. Wheel symbols represent the cycles of the year. Many people decorate a small living tree with fruit and strings of cranberries and nuts, called a Yule tree. Festivities usually include spiced cider, fruit cakes, and eggnog. The modern version of this holiday is called Christmas.

Imbolc: also known as Candle Mass is held on February 2^nd. People celebrate by lighting candles that are laid out in a circle, and symbolizes the coming of the Sun and Spring. It is the blessing time of the seeds in honor of rebirth to come. The Goddess is asked to bless the coming season of growth and fertility, and thanks is given. Imbolc also symbolizes the end of Winter and the beginning of Spring. Celebratory colors of this festival are white, blue, and green. A dish of snow, evergreens and, candles are the main centerpieces for this celebration. People feast on nuts, dried fruits, and ciders, as well as, homemade cakes. Most closely relates to the date of our modern Groundhogs Day.