#lughnasadh candle

[amentet-draws]

Drew this candle a while ago just to warm up.

Lammas blessings by the way. And happy harvest!

Some years ago some of my fellow online Wiccan buddies have come with an idea of making a candle chain for every sabbat, not just Imbolc. Each of us was keeping the flame for 24 hours (more or less, depended on our schedule and time zones), then passed it to another via phone call or message. I loved taking part in it. Especially when making phone calls! (I didn't have a smartphone yet when we've just started so messaging was harder than phoning).

Sadly that web coven is no more.

But therefore it's totally OK to post candle drawings for each Sabbat (until at last I come up with something new)

[avalon-princesss]

💛🌻 Lughnasha blessings 🌻💛

[brew-moon]

Blessed Lughnasadh 🤍

[meerawrites]

Lughnasadh 2023.

[wyrmmound]

:3 offering plate for lughnasadh

[literaryvein-reblogs]

Some Magic-Related Vocabulary

for your next poem/story

Amulet: An object worn, carried or placed to guard against negativity or other vibrations. A protective object.

Astral Projection: The practice of separating the consciousness from the physical body so that the former may move about unhindered by time, space or gravity.

Bane: A poison; that which destroys life. "Henbane" is poisonous to hens.

Banish: To drive away evil, negativity or spirits.

Beltane: An ancient folk-festival day observed by Witches that celebrates the fully blossomed spring. April 30 or May 1.

Censer: A vessel of metal or earthenware in which incense is burned. An incense burner.

Chaplet: A garland or wreath of flowers or leaves worn on the head, as in the chaplets given to classical Greek heroes as symbols of honor.

Clairvoyance: Literally "clear seeing." The ability to perceive facts, events and other data by other than the five "normal" senses, unaided by tools.

Curse: A concentration of negative and destructive energy, deliberately formed and directed toward a person, place or thing.

Divination: The art of finding things out through means other than the five senses, using tools such as tarot cards, crystal balls, and so on.

Enchant: "Sing to." Magically speaking, a procedure whereby herbs are aligned with your magical need prior to their use.

Evil Eye, The: Supposed glance capable of causing great harm or fear, once almost universally feared.

Fascination: The art of placing other people under one's power through sounds, gazes, colors, etc.

Hex: An evil spell; a curse.

Incubus: A male demon or spirit which was believed to sexually tempt and abuse women; the succubus was the corresponding female demon.

Infusion: An herbal tea.

Lughnasadh: An old harvest festival celebrated on August 1st or 2nd in Europe, reverencing the abundant (harvested) fruits of the Earth. It is still observed by Wicca.

Magic: The practice of causing needed change through the use of powers as yet undefined and unaccepted by science.

Magic Circle: A ritually-created circle (or sphere) that offers protection to the magician during magical rites.

Magician: A person of either sex who practices magic.

Magus: A magician.

Midsummer: The Summer Solstice, usually on or near June 21st, one of the Wiccan festival days and an excellent time to practice magic.

Pendulum: A tool of divination which consists of a heavy object suspended from a string or cord. The end of the cord is held between the thumb and forefinger; questions are asked and their answers divided by the movements of the pendulum.

Pentagram: A five-pointed star which has been used in magic for centuries. Highly symbolic, it is also a protective device.

Poppet: A small doll made of various substances to influence a person's fife. In herb magic, either a carved root or a cloth image stuffed with herbs. The use of poppets is known as "image magic."

Power Hand, The: The hand you write with; the dominant hand. This is a magically potent hand.

Samhain: An ancient festival day marking the beginning of winter. Also known as "Halloween" and All Hallows Eve. It is observed by Wicca with religious ceremonies.

Scry: To gaze into a pool of ink, fire, crystal ball, etc. to awaken and summon psychic powers.

Spell: A magical rite.

Talisman: An object worn or carried to attract a specific influence, such as love, luck, money, health; as opposed to an amulet which keeps forces from its bearer.

Wicca: A contemporary religion with spiritual roots in prehistory that worships the life-force of the universe as personified as a God and Goddess. It is sometimes erroneously referred to as "witchcraft."

Witch Bottle: A bottle or jar containing herbs, pins, shards of glass and other objects, designed to protect a person or area from evil and curses. Usually buried or placed in a window.

Witchcraft: The practice of natural magic, as that of herbs, stones, and candles. Spell-casting. Still used by some to refer to the religion of Wicca.

Wort: An old word meaning "herb." Mugwort preserves the term.

Excerpt from Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs More: Word Lists ⚜ Esoteric Vocabulary ⚜ On Magic

[the-mortuary-witch]

WAYS TO CELEBRATE THE SABBATS

IMBOLC (CANDLEMAS)

Clean your home and space to welcome the coming of spring.

Bake a traditional Imbolc loaf of bread or other seasonal foods.

Use the colours white and yellow in your decorations and outfits.

Light a bonfire or light candles to represent the returning light.

Plant seeds or bulbs to symbolize the rebirth of nature.

Perform a ritual to honour the coming of spring and ask for protection and blessings.

Make a Brigid's cross or other handcrafted decorations with herbs and other natural materials.

Perform a blessing of your home and surroundings with holy water or smoke cleansing.

Set up an altar or sacred space to honour the Celtic goddess Brigid, associated with Imbolc.

Make Brigid's bed, a traditional ritual of placing straw under your bed to bring fertility and growth into your life.

Connect with nature and spend time outside to honour the changing season.

OSTARA (SPRING EQUINOX)

Participate in fertility rites and rituals to celebrate the coming of spring and the planting season.

Decorate your altar or sacred space with symbols of Ostara, such as eggs, bunnies, daffodils, and pastel colours.

Perform a spring cleaning of your home and life, releasing old habits and welcoming new beginnings.

Light a fire or light candles to honour the return of lighter, longer days.

Bake a traditional honey cake or other seasonal sweets to celebrate the sweetness of spring. 

Plant seeds or herbs for new growth and prosperity.

Go for a nature walk or hike to connect with the natural world.

Participate in an egg hunt or egg rolling, traditional Ostara games 

Perform a protection spell or ritual to honour the increasing light and longer days.

Practice self-care rituals to nourish and rejuvenate your mind and body.

BELTANE (MAY EVE)

Celebrate the fertility of the earth with bonfires and rituals honouring the fire god, Belenos.

Make a maypole and decorate it with colourful ribbons.

Participate in a maypole dance, a traditional celebration of fertility and joy.

Make a wish list and tie it to a tree on Beltane eve.

Collect flowers, especially May blossom or hawthorne flowers, and make a garland or crown to wear.

Create a flower crown or wear one made of wildflowers to honour the faery folk and fertility spirits.

Perform a ritual to bless your home and land for prosperity and protection.

Jump over the Beltane bonfires, symbolizing jumping over obstacles and embracing new beginnings.

Have a picnic or gathering with friends and family to celebrate the abundance and growth of the season.

Create a sacred space or altar for Beltane, decorat with flowers, herbs, and other nature-related objects.

Perform a cleansing ritual to rid yourself of negative energy and welcome the energy of new beginnings.

Make a bouquet of wildflowers or herbs, and hang it on your front door to welcome the spirits of Beltane.

Go for a walk in the woods or a natural setting and connect with the beauty and energy of the season.

LITHA (SUMMER SOLSTICE/MIDSUMMER)

Participate in a bonfires or lighting a sacred fire, celebrating the arrival of the longest day of the year.

Collect herbs and flowers, especially ones associated with the sun, such as calendula, yarrow, and St. John's wort, and make a solstice garland.

Perform a ritual to honour the sun and ask for protection and blessings.

Dance around the bonfire or engage in other traditions associated with the Summer Solstice, such as singing and drumming.

Have a solstice feast, filled with summer bounty, seasonal foods, and family.

Celebrate in the natural world, go for a walk, or have a picnic during the longest day.

Honour the Celtic goddess Litha, associated with the Summer Solstice. 

Start summer resolutions. 

Get your hands dirty and embrace the earth. Consider planting a vegetable garden for fall harvest or add to your flower garden to mark the occasion. 

LAMMAS (LUGHNASADH)

Baking bread. 

Crafting corn dolls. 

Pick wild flowers. 

Honour the earth and the cycles of nature. 

Perform Sun magick. 

Give thanks to the spirits and/or deities for the beginning of the harvest season. 

Collect and honour the first fruits of the harvest, such as grains, corn, and apples.

Perform a ritual to honour Lugh and thank the gods and goddesses for the harvest.

Hold a harvest festival or feast, sharing the bounty of the land with family and friends.

Make a Lughnasadh altar or shrine with symbols of the harvest, such as corn, grains, and apples.

Participate in a traditional Lughnasadh celebration, such as a harvest dance or ritual.

Collect herbs and plants for healing and protection, as Lughnasadh is traditionally a time for preparing for the winter months.

MABON (AUTUMN EQUINOX/FALL HARVEST)

Celebrate the balance between light and dark, and the onset of the harvest season.

Honour the Celtic god Mabon, associated with the Autumn Equinox.

Participate in a harvest celebration, collecting and honouring the fruits of the land.

Make a corn dolly or a straw figure as a reminder of the abundance of the harvest.

Perform a ritual to honour the balance of the seasons and thank the gods and goddesses for their blessings.

Spend time writing in your journal. You could reminisce about your summer experiences, reflect on the shifts you feel with the changing season, contemplate what you're ready to release, or express gratitude for the blessings in your life.

Participate in a nature walk or ceremony, taking time to connect with the natural world and the turning of the seasons.

Enjoy your favourite fall beverages. 

Make a gratitude list or write a gratitude letter, expressing your appreciation for the abundance and beauty of the harvest season.

Connect with nature. 

Bring the beauty of fall indoors by decorating your home with seasonal touches. 

Performing a gratitude or release ritual. 

SAMHAIN (ALL HALLOWS/FINAL HARVEST)

Carving pumpkins with friends. 

Relax and watch some horror movies. 

Treat yourself to sweets. 

Participate in a haunted house, hayride, or corn maze event.

Declutter/organize your home. 

Focus on letting go to make space for the new year. 

Collecting leaves. 

Bake treats that contain pumpkin. 

Creating a spooky, atmospheric decor for your home or workspace, such as cobwebs, faux spiders, and other creepy décor items.

Gathering friends and loved ones for a Samhain feast, feasting on symbolic foods like apples, pumpkin, or corn.

Visit a local pumpkin patch. 

Making personalized altar items and decorative pieces for your sacred space, such as witch jars, mandalas, sigils, symbols of the harvest, items associated with death, etc. 

Participating in a divination practice like tarot reading, scrying, or rune casting to gain insight and connect with the energy of the night.

Go to a harvest festival or carnival.

Hold a Samhain seance or mediumship session to contact the spirits of loved ones who have passed on.

Participate in a potluck dinner with witches and pagans, dressing in traditional Samhain garb.

RESPECTFULLY visit a graveyard. 

YULE (WINTER SOLSTICE/MIDWINTER)

Burn a Yule log. 

Make an evergreen Yule wreath.

Decorate a Yule tree. 

Make a Yule wish list or a Yule resolution, as Yule is a time of reflection and intention setting.

Practice Yule carol singing, participating in a community sing-along or carolling event.

Celebrate in candle light. 

Give back to nature. 

Exchange nature-based gifts. 

Host a feast for those you love with foods associated with Yule, such as: roast goose, Yule ham, nuts, berries, spices, squash, and potatoes. 

Eat or make/bake Yule ham, gingerbread, mulled wine, roast goose, spiced cakes, shortbread, snowball, caraway, ginger snaps, honey cakes or pastries, and biscuits. 

Eat or give sweets flavoured with nutmeg, cinnamon, ginger, or peppermint. 

Participate in the longest night of the year and prepare for the return of the light.

Honour deities associated with Yule, such as Odin, Baldur, Hel, Loki, Sol, Freyr, Njörðr with lights, candles, and bonfires.

Participate in a Yule spell or ritual, asking for blessings and protection for the coming year.

Decorate your home with evergreen boughs and wreaths, representing the evergreen nature of the sun and eternal life.

Host a Yule log ceremony. 

Participate in an outdoor activity, like sledding or ice skating, to honour the winter season.

[irlangelsdiary]

✿ A list of most (if not all) wicca holidays

✮ Lammas (Lughnasadh) – Pagan/Wiccan Aug 1st

Lammas, also known as Loafmas or Lughnasadh, commemorates the harvest of the first grains, primarily for breadmaking. Lughnasadh itself is named after Lugh, a Celtic deity associated with grain. Lammas celebrations include feasting, crafting corn dollies, and participating in games and contests as a way to honor Lugh and the bounty of the season.

✮ Mabon (Fall Equinox) – Pagan/Wiccan Sept 21st

Mabon, celebrated at the fall equinox, marks the transition to the approaching darkness of the coming winter months. Mabon celebrations involve giving thanks for the harvest, making offerings of fruits and vegetables, and performing ceremonies to honor the equinox’s change from the light half of the year to the dark. Decorations made of corn, squash, vines and pumpkins are common.

✮ Samhain (All Hallows Eve) – Pagan/Wiccan Oct 31st

Samhain today marks the end of the harvest, the start of the Pagan/Wiccan New Year, and the honoring of our ancestors and the dead. Samhain celebrations include lighting candles, setting up altars, and modern activities like costume parties, trick-or-treating, and jack-o’-lanterns.

✮ Yule (Winter Solstice) – Pagan/Wiccan Dec 21st

Yule, celebrated at the winter solstice, marks the day on which the “sun is reborn.” Yule celebrations include the burning of the Yule log, kissing under the mistletoe, decorating homes with holly and evergreen branches, and performing rituals to welcome the return of the sun’s warmth and light to the world.

✮Imbolc (Candlemas) – Pagan/Wiccan Feb 2nd

Imbolc heralds the first signs of spring and is dedicated to Brigid, a Celtic goddess of poetry and fire who was later canonized by the Catholic Church. Imbolc celebrations include candlelit processions, the lighting of a hearth fires, and sending blessings to the fields and farm animals.

✮Ostara (Spring Equinox) – Pagan/Wiccan May 21st

Ostara, celebrated at the spring equinox, marks the beginning of the light half of the year and the arrival of spring. Ostara is celebrated by the coloring and decorating of eggs, planting of seeds, and performing rituals that honor the balance of light and dark.

✮Beltane (May Day) – Pagan/Wiccan May 1st

Beltane is a joyful fertility festival that welcomes the height of spring and celebrates the divine feminine and masculine coming together in fruitful union. Beltane celebrations include dancing around the Maypole, wearing wreaths or crowns of flowers, the crowning of a May Queen, and the lighting of bonfires.

Litha/Midsummer (Summer Solstice) – Pagan/Wiccan June 21st

Litha, celebrated at the summer solstice, marks when the sun is at its maximum power and the longest day of the year. Litha celebrations include lighting bonfires, outdoor feasts, and rituals that honor the warmth and light of the sun and the season’s abundance.

[talonabraxas]

Thu, 1 Aug 2024

Also known as Lammas, Lughnasadh is the first of three autumn celebrations in the Wheel of the Year. Lughnasadh is celebrated on August 1, which is in the sign of Leo, when the sun reaches 15 degrees of Leo.

2024 Wheel of the Year (Sabbats)

Pagan Wheel

Feb 2 – IMBOLC (also called Candlemas, Imbolg, and Saint Brigid’s Day) It is midway between the Winter Solstice and Spring Equinox. This sabbat reminds us that the light is growing stronger and that the harshness of winter will start to fade. To celebrate the growing light, many Pagans will light candles on this holiday.

Mar 19 – OSTARA /Spring Equinox: light and darkness are in perfect balance on this day. Moving forward, daylight will continue to grow as we head into Spring. It is a time to celebrate balance and the arrival of Spring. It represents new beginnings and the freshness of a new day. What’s past is in the past and past and it’s time to move forward.

May 1 – BELTANE (also known as May Day) (pronounced BELL-tain) This is an exciting and energetic holiday that celebrates sexuality, fertility, and all of the life that comes with Spring. It is a time of great joy and celebration! Feel the creative energy of the Universe. It is a time of renewal and rebirth … a time to grow as a person and reinvent yourself if you so desire.

June 20 – LITHA / Summer Solstice The Sun is at its maximum strength … it is the longest day of the year. This is a season of growth, fruitfulness, abundance, and strength. It’s a great night to perform spells for money, abundance, and financial security … and the strength to do what you need to do to be successful.

June 23 – Midsummer’s Eve: the night before Mid-Summer (June 24). It is considered a night of potent magick. Many Witches will be performing rituals and casting spells on this night. It is also a night when fairies roam the land. If you work with the fairy realm, this is an important night for you!

Aug 1 – LAMMAS (also known as Lughnassadh) the first harvest festival. It celebrates the first grains harvested for baking bread. Celebrate by baking or buying a loaf of bread and sharing it as a celebration.

Sept 22 – MABON / Fall Equinox: the light and darkness are in balance on this day. But it marks the change from the light half of the year to the dark half of the year. Moving forward the darkness will grow longer and the daylight will grow shorter. It is a celebration of the second harvest festival and is celebrated by feasting and visiting with family and friends.

Oct 31 – SAMHAIN (pronounced SAH-win) (as known as Halloween) This is the Witches’ New Year! The veil between worlds is thinnest and the dead are thought to return and visit. It is a night to communicate with the spirits, spirit guides, and ancestors. It is also a night to work with Tarot cards and Crystal Balls!

Samhain is also a time when we come to terms with death and are openly encouraged to let go of our fears of it. It is a time when we acknowledge the hard moments of life that we usually don’t think or talk about. If there are things we need to let go of, Samhain is a good time to release them!

Dec 21 – YULE / Winter Solstice: The real reason that this time of year was celebrated .. before christianity existed. We are halfway through the dark part of the year. The darkness is at its peak…moving forward the light begins to grow stronger and days become longer. You can see why the newly formed cult of christianity, which is what it was at the time, choose this time of year for the birth of christ…the light grows strong and brighter…the Sun is reborn. Yule traditions include burning a Yule log, kissing under mistletoe, and placing an evergreen tree in your home to represent the sustaining of life during the winter.

[lunar-bat]

Witchcraft 101: Wicca & The Wheel of The Year

Paganism - An umbrella term for many nature-based and polytheistic spiritual traditions. Note that not all pagans practice witchcraft. Wicca - A pagan, nature-based religious movement. Wicca blends aspects of witchcraft, nature veneration, and ceremonial magic. It places a strong emphasis on honoring nature and follows a duotheistic belief system often known as the Triple Goddess and Horned God. Wheel of The Year The wheel reflects the cyclical nature of life, death, and rebirth in the natural world and is central to the rituals, spells, and celebrations of many pagan and witchcraft traditions. The Wheel of the Year is divided into eight significant points, which correspond to the Sabbats or festivals:

Samhain (October 31st): Also known as All Hollow's Eve, marks the beginning of the Wheel of the Year and is associated with the end of the harvest season and the onset of winter. Samhain is a time for honoring ancestors, reflecting on mortality, and recognizing the thinning of the veil between the physical and spirit worlds. Samhain is a time to acknowledge the cyclical nature of life and death and to connect with the spiritual realm. Yule (Winter Solstice, typically around December 21st): Marks the rebirth of the sun, with a focus on light, hope, and renewal during the darkest time of the year. Yule customs include lighting candles or a Yule log, feasting, gift-giving, and spending time with loved ones. It's a significant part of the Wheel of the Year, emphasizing the cyclical nature of life and the changing seasons. Imbolc (February 1st): Marks the early signs of spring and the gradual return of light and warmth. Imbolc is associated with the Celtic goddess Brigid and is a time for purification, cleaning, and preparing for the coming season's growth. It's often celebrated with rituals, candle lighting, and dedication to Brigid. Imbolc highlights the theme of renewal and the awakening of life after the winter months. Ostara (Spring Equinox, typically around March 21st): Marks the arrival of spring, where day and night are in balance. Ostara is a time for celebrating fertility, new beginnings, and the growth of life. It is often associated with themes of rebirth, renewal, and the awakening of nature. Common customs include egg decorating, planting seeds, and celebrating the return of warmth and longer days. Beltane (May 1st): Celebration of fertility, love, and the union of the goddess and god. Beltane is often observed with rituals, bonfires, Maypole dancing, and other festivities that emphasize the vitality and growth of life in the natural world. Midsummer (Summer Solstice, typically around June 21st): Also known as Litha, marks the longest day of the year when the sun is at its peak. Midsummer is a time for harnessing the sun's energy, celebrating the abundance of nature, and enjoying outdoor festivities. Common customs include lighting bonfires, dancing, and gathering herbs and flowers for magical and medicinal purposes. Lughnasadh (August 1st): Also known as Lammas, marks the first harvest of the year and is associated with the Celtic god Lugh. Lughnasadh is a festival dedicated to expressing gratitude for the Earth's bountiful harvest and agricultural abundance. Traditional practices during this time involve crafting corn dollies, enjoying meals made from freshly harvested crops, and engaging in various games and competitions. Mabon (Autumn Equinox, typically around September 21st): Marks the second harvest and a time of balance when day and night are equal. Mabon is a festival for reflecting on gratitude, giving thanks for the fruits of the Earth, and preparing for the darker months ahead. Common customs include feasting on seasonal foods, making offerings to the land, and creating altars with symbols of the season.

[esoteric-chaos]

Lughnasadh Masterpost - Spoonie Witch Friendly

Lughnasadh, this holiday typically lands on August 1st in the Northern Hemisphere (February 1st in the Southern Hemisphere). 

Lughnasadh celebrates the arrival of the late summer season and the abundance of the first harvest.

Usually it a harvest of grain and corn, but in other areas it’s a fruit and vegetables for harvest. You’ll see the days begin to shorten from here.

This is a holiday that is more easy to feel disconnect from as most aren’t out there Stardew Valley style on their grandfathers farm. We either have a small garden of our own or everything is store bought. Or those who are gluten intolerant they also may find it harder to connect.

Celebrating and honoring the harvest is important. Even if we are not personally gardening we are offering thanks for natures prosperity in keeping us fed and healthy with each bountiful harvest.

But after this correspondence list I will give you a list of ideas of how everyone can celebrate.

Correspondences

Colours

Yellow

Orange

Gold

Green

Light Brown

Dark Purple

Tan

Herbal

Rosemary

Cinnamon

Mint

Basil

Garlic

Flowers

Sunflowers

Marigolds

Hydrangeas

Daisy

Dahlia

Zinnias

Yarrow

Roses

Honeysuckle

Oaktree

Apple tree

Edibles

(Anything within season)

Wheat, grains, bread

Corn

Apples

Berries

Peaches

Pears

Squash & zucchini

Tomatoes

Mead

Animals

Calves

Crow 

Pig 

Rooster

Salmon

Eagle

Lion

Squirrel

Stag

Lamb/ Sheep

Crystals

Citrine

Quartz

Amber

Malachite

Carnelian

Aventurine

Garnet

Tiger’s Eye

Metals

Symbols

The Sun

Wine & mead

Pentagram

Sunflowers

Corn

Wheat

Berries

Spiritual meanings & intentions

Prosperity

Success 

Gathering, harvesting

Giving, donating, sharing, charity

Thankful & grateful

Ancestors & heritage

Offerings

Blessings

The folk

Health

Career

Scents

Rose

Apple

Lavender

Cinnamon

Mint

Frankincense

Sandalwood

Coconut

Patchouli

Gods / Goddesses / Spirits

Demeter – (Greek)

Ceres – (Roman)

Isis – (Egyptian)

Luna – (Roman)

Dana – (Celtic)

Tailtiu – (Celtic) 

Cerridwen – (Celtic)

Parvati (Hindu)

Pomona (Roman)

Lugh – (Celtic)

Taranis – (Celtic)

Adonis (Assyrian/Greek)

Attis (Phrygian)

Mercury (Roman)

Osiris (Egyptian)

And many other harvest Gods/Goddesses

Need some suggestions to celebrate? I got you covered.

High energy celebrations

Abundance rituals

Visit a harvest festival

Harvest your garden

Bake bread

Baking pastries

Make jam or preserves 

Visit a farmer’s market

Create a large meal for the folk

Deity offerings

Create a money bowl (try rice in it just trust me)

Low energy celebrations

Healing bath ritual

Light a candle in honor

Prayer to Gods/Goddesses

Journal

Eat some fresh vegetables 

No spoons celebrations

Create a digital manifestation board (Try Pinterest) 

Eating fall themed pastries

Drinking apple juice or cider

Thank the harvest when you are able to fuel your body for taking care of you

Remember that it’s okay if you cant do much while you are unwell. That you come first and you simply existing is a blessing.

How you celebrate the holiday does not matter. You can choose to do any activity that feels right. These are only suggestions and remember that you're enough no matter what.

[thejournallo]

Explain the basic: The Sabbats

first things first! Happy yule to everyone who celebrate it!

Taking advantage of the fact that today is one of the sabbats, we are actually going to learn what exactly the sabbats are.

I will do part two with all the things associated with the Sabbats and what we can do to celebrate them.

Disclaimer: Not every witch celebrates the Sabbats or is forced to do so. Also, I will do some parallelism and example with the Christian's holiday, because some Christian traditions are "stolen" from the paganism and some are revisited. Christians and non-Christian religions have their own versions of every celebration for different reasons; let's respect each other because no religion is bad.

The pagan sabbats refer to the eight seasonal celebrations observed by many modern pagan and Wiccan traditions. These festivals mark important points in the solar cycle, celebrating the changing seasons and agricultural cycles. The sabbats are divided into two groups: the four Greater Sabbats, also known as the cross-quarter days, and the four Lesser Sabbats, which coincide with the solstices and equinoxes.

Greater Sabbats (Cross-Quarter Days):

Samhain (October 31st): This marks the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter. It's considered a time when the veil between the physical world and the spirit world is thinnest, making it a time for honoring ancestors and reflecting on mortality. This Sabbat is more popularly known as Halloween, and the association really changes depending on the costumes. For example, in Italy, in some restricted beliefs guided by ignorance, Halloween is associated with the devil and comes before the Day of the Saints (1st November) and the Day of the Dead (2nd November), and only the younger generation started to celebrate it.

Imbolc (February 1st or 2nd): Imbolc celebrates the return of spring and the growing light. It's associated with purification and new beginnings, often symbolized by the lighting of candles and the goddess Brigid.

Beltane (May 1st): Beltane heralds the arrival of summer and is a fertility festival celebrating life, growth, and the union of the god and goddess. It's a time of joy, dancing around maypoles, and honoring fertility. In Italy, we have Fogheraccia is a typical Romagna folklore celebration held every year on the evening of March 18th, on the eve of the spring equinox, when the Bacchanalia took place and the Dionysian rites to propitiate fertility as well as the beginning of the new Roman year, from which its pagan origin can be traced. With the arrival of Christianity, the event was renamed Saint John's Day.

Lughnasadh/Lammas (August 1st): This marks the first harvest, celebrating the fruits of labor and the bounty of the earth. It's a time to give thanks for the abundance of the season. The name Lammas is also used, taken from a later Christianized Anglo-Saxon festival that took place at the same time and may or may not have the same origin. As the name indicates (from loafmass, "festival of loaves"), it is a celebration of thanksgiving for bread, which represents the first fruit of the harvest.

Lesser Sabbats (Solstices and Equinoxes):

Yule (Winter Solstice, around December 21st): Yule celebrates the winter solstice, the shortest day and longest night of the year. It signifies the rebirth of the sun and the return of light, often symbolized by the burning of the Yule log. In this modern day of celebrating Yule, it's like celebrating Christmas; the symbols are the same but the meanings are different. In Yule, it is used to decorate three with candlelight and sweet biscuits to keep Fae and Gnome away during the celebrations. The Krampus was transformed into a bad creature when in reality it was our "Santa Claus," but let me explain. It originated in Norway when the native pagans used to worship Thor, who was said to travel in a chariot that was drawn by two goats. During the Yule celebrations, the pagans would visit homes wearing goatskins and a goat head. When the country became Christian, the tradition was also absorbed into the new faith. Initially, the Julebukk was a goat slaughtered at Christmastime to celebrate the end of the agricultural work year. With time, it meant a person who led a costumed procession from house to house to entertain the residents and be rewarded with food and drink. In the early 19th century, the Julebukk also became the bringer of presents, the predecessor of the Julenisse, equivalent to Santa Claus in English.

Ostara (Spring Equinox, around March 21st): Ostara marks the vernal equinox, a time of balance when day and night are equal. It's a celebration of fertility, growth, and new life. Ostara is the Sabbat associated with Easter and celebrates the coming of spring. For Christians, it is the celebration of the coming back of Jesus.

Midsummer/Litha (Summer Solstice, around June 21st): This celebrates the longest day of the year when the sun is at its peak. It's a time for revelry, honoring the sun's power, and acknowledging the abundance of nature. The early Christian Church designated June 24 as the feast day of the early Christian martyr St. John the Baptist [22], and the observance of St. John's Day begins the evening before, known as Saint John's Eve.

Mabon (Autumn Equinox, around September 21st): Mabon marks the autumnal equinox, a time of balance before the descent into winter. It's a time for gratitude for the harvest and preparation for the colder months.

These sabbats vary in how they're observed and celebrated, with rituals, feasts, ceremonies, and specific customs tied to each one. Different pagan traditions may have variations in the names, practices, and specific dates for these celebrations, but they generally revolve around honoring nature's cycles and spiritual significance.

As always, I will love to hear your thoughts! and if you have any questions, I will be more than happy to answer them! If you liked it, leave a comment or reblog (that is always appreciated!). and have a wonderful day or night!

[meerawrites]

Happy Lughnasadh!

[smudgingpumpkins]

LAMMAS

Also known as "Lughnasadh"

When is Lammas?

It is celebrated on August 1st, which is roughly the midway point between the summer solstice and autumn equinox.

What does Lammas mean?

It is a celebration of the ripening of the harvest, and preparation for the upcoming autumn. Apples and cherries are ripe for picking, and corn and beans stand tall and green.

Who does Lammas celebrate?

As in the name, the Celtic god Lugh is traditionally honored, in which he is the god of the sun, of craftsmanship, and of harvest. Some stories say that Lugh held a harvest on the first of August for his foster mother, Tailtiu.

LAMMAS TRADITIONS

Work with stones that heighten creativity, abundance, and wealth, such as moss agate, carnelian, red aventurine, yellow topaz, obsidian, and citrine.

Use musky herbs and flowers like peonies, hydrangeas, rosemary, sandalwood, and most importantly wheat. These beautiful pinkish flowers bring forth good fortune and good omens to past and future memories. Wheat is a major source of energy and provides healthy vitamins and minerals.

Consume a variety of grains, fruits, and vegetables, like corn, beans, apples, cherries, and fresh bread. Key crops become ready for harvest in the late summer and early fall, so consume them to honor farmers, the end of summer, and the God Lugh.

Wear and/or decorate with orange, bronze, beige, and light brown colors.

Incorporate animal imagery (e.g., photographs, drawings, figurines, et cetera) of roosters, pigs, and cows, which are in close association with farming and agriculture. In some cultures, these animals represent good fortune, power, and success.

LAMMAS ACTIVITIES

Bake bread. Wheat is a major part of Lammas and has historically been a staple crop during times of starvation. "Lammas" is actually a derivative of the Anglo-Saxon word "loaf mass."

Get creative. Lugh is the god of craftsmanship, after all. Write poems, paint, play an instrument--or whatever you choose.

Take a ritual bath: add a drop of rosemary oil, coarse salt, verbena, and flower petals to your bath.

Craft a wheat straw doll. They are also called "grain goddesses" or "harvest queens." Make them out of wheat stems or straws and use hemp/cotton thread to form the head and arms!

Make a Lammas altar. In the center of the altar, add an icon of Lugh or a god(dess) of your choice, and decorate around it with birch sticks, wheat, flowers, candles, brown and beige colors, and a cornucopia if you would like.

Get creative with recipes! Carlota Santos, the author of Magika, recommends a "Lammas cocktail" with red wine, cinnamon, and apples.

Carlota Santos' Lammas Cocktail Recipe

[apiswitchcraft]

the cyclical holidays

sometimes the days of these holidays can change depending on the year but these are the traditional dates

alban arthuan - winter solstice

date: december 21st

associations: the sun, nwyfre (life force), white and gold, crowns, the new moon, midnight, Dagda and Hu

imbolc

alban eiler - spring equinox

date: february 1st

associations: the earth, calas (principle of matter), brown and black, a circle of candles, the first crescent moon, first light, Brighid and Ana

belteinne

date: march 21st

associations: saturn, element of earth, indigo and red, a dragon, the first quarter moon, dawn, Aengus and Coel

alban heriun - summer solstice

date: may 1st

associations: jupiter, the element of water, sky blue and orange, a mead horn, the waxing gibbous moon, morning, Eriu and Elen

lughnasadh

date: june 21st

associations: mars, the element of fire, red and yellow, three rays of light, the full moon, noon, Lugh and Beli

alban elued - autumn equinox

date: august 1st

associations: venus, the element of air, gold and green, a fiery wheel, the waning gibbous moon, afternoon, Tailtiu and Sul

samhuinn

date: september 22nd

associations: mercury, the element of spirit, green and blue, a silver branch, the last quarter moon, dusk, Mannanan and Esus

date: november 1st

associations: the moon, gwyar (principle of flow), violet and silver, a cauldron, the last crescent moon, evening, the Morrigan and Cerridwen

[magickkate]

Today, let's talk about Lammas, the Sabbat of the first harvest! As the days grow shorter and the first fruits of the harvest ripen on the vine, we come to Lammas, a festival of gratitude, abundance, and celebration. This Sabbat marks the first harvest of the season and celebrates the fruits of our labor and the blessings of the earth.

Lammas, also known as Lughnasadh, is a sacred festival celebrated on July 31st - August 2nd in the Northern Hemisphere (or January 31st - February 2nd in the Southern Hemisphere). It marks the halfway point between the Summer Solstice and the Autumn Equinox and is a time to honor the first harvest of the season and give thanks for the abundance of the Earth.

🌾 History and Traditions:

Lammas has its roots in ancient agricultural societies, where it was celebrated as a festival of grain and the harvest. The name "Lammas" comes from the Old English word "hlafmaesse," meaning "loaf mass," referring to the tradition of baking bread with the newly harvested grain. In Celtic mythology, Lammas is associated with the god Lugh, who was honored with games, feasting, and rituals celebrating the harvest. It is a time of community gatherings, feasting, and giving thanks for the blessings of the Earth.

Here are a few ways to honor the magic of Lammas:

Give Thanks for the Harvest: Take this time to give thanks for the abundance of the earth and the blessings of the harvest, expressing gratitude for the nourishment and sustenance it provides.

Bake Bread and Share Food: Bake bread or other baked goods using grains harvested from the earth, and share them with loved ones as a symbol of abundance and community.

🌾 Recipes: -> Lammas Bread: Bake a loaf of bread using whole grains such as wheat or cornmeal. Add herbs like rosemary or basil for flavor and intention. -> Harvest Soup: Create a hearty soup using seasonal vegetables like corn, squash, and potatoes. Infuse it with warmth and nourishment to symbolize the abundance of the harvest.

Create a Harvest Altar: Decorate your altar with symbols of the harvest, such as grains, fruits, vegetables, and symbols of abundance, to honor the bounty of the earth and the blessings of the season.

🌾 Correspondences:

Colors: Gold, yellow, orange, green.

Symbols: Wheat, grain, corn, bread, sunflowers, sheaves of wheat.

Herbs: Meadowsweet, chamomile, sunflower, rosemary, basil.

Crystals: Citrine, amber, peridot, carnelian.

Offerings to the Land: Make offerings to the land and the spirits of nature, giving back to the earth and expressing your appreciation for its gifts.

Hold a Harvest Ritual: Gather with loved ones to hold a ritual of gratitude and celebration, giving thanks for the abundance of the earth and the blessings of the season.

🌾 Rituals and Celebrations:

Harvest Ritual: Create an altar adorned with symbols of the harvest, such as grains, fruits, and vegetables. Offer gratitude to the Earth for its abundance and blessings. Light candles in shades of gold and yellow to honor the sun's warmth and energy.

Bread Baking: Bake bread using freshly harvested grains or incorporate grains like wheat or cornmeal into your cooking. As you knead the dough, infuse it with your intentions for abundance and prosperity.

Outdoor Activities: Spend time in nature, perhaps visiting a local farm or orchard to connect with the land and observe the ripening crops. Take a nature walk and collect wildflowers or herbs to decorate your home or altar.

Feasting and Sharing: Host a feast with friends and loved ones, featuring dishes made from seasonal produce. Share stories, laughter, and gratitude for the abundance of the harvest season.

Lammas is a time of gratitude, abundance, and celebration, reminding us to honor the cycles of nature and give thanks for the blessings of the Earth. May your Lammas be filled with joy, abundance, and blessings from the harvest! 🌾🍞🌞