There are eight major sabbats.
Samhain- October 31st
Also known as Halloween, this is the time we celebrate the new year and the time when the veil is
at it's thinnest between the worlds. This is the time to connect with loved ones who have passed over.
Yule- December 20-23rd
Yule, the Winter Solstice, celebrates the rebirth of the Sun God. Yule is the
time when we have a Yule tree, which the Christians adopted as the 'Christmas' tree. During Yule, we also exchange gifts,
though this is not necessary.
Imbolc- February 1st
The first of February marks the day to honour the Celtic Goddess of Healing, Brighid. We celebrate
the coming of Spring on this day when the pregnant maiden gives birth to everything blooming. Also called the Feast
of Brighid.
Ostara- March 20-23rd
The Spring or Vernal Equinox. Ostara's symbol and animal are the egg and the rabbit, yet another
tradition the Christians adopted with 'Easter'. Ostara is the balance of day and night.
Beltane- May 1st
Watch out all you fertile myrtle's, because this is the biggest fertility celebration of all.
Sex plays a major part in this celebration, but it is not to be interpreted as mass orgies. The young Horned God and
the Goddess are united on this day and they work through us. Maypoles are the main activity during this time in which
the pole, representing the masculine phallic symbol and the wreath and ribbons, representing the feminine, are intertwined.
Also called May Day.
Litha- June 20-23rd
Summer Solstice, the longest day of the year, and the time when the days will grow shorter, when
everything is at it's peak, and in celebration of the Earth. Also called Midsummer.
Lughnasadh- August 1st
The first harvests begin on this day, Lammas. The Celtic Sun God Lugh is honoured. We give
thanks for the plentiful harvests that will sustain us through the Winter season.
Mabon- September 20-23rd
At the end of the harvest we celebrate the Autumnal Equinox. Day and night are balanced once
more, and the death of Lugh ensures that we will live through the dark days of the coming season.
