The Pagan Sabbats, also known as Wheel of the Year, are seasonal festivals celebrated by many Pagan and Wiccan traditions. These Sabbats mark significant points in the changing of the seasons and are often associated with agricultural cycles, mythology, and spiritual themes. There are eight Sabbats in total, divided into two categories: Greater Sabbats, also known as Cross Quarter Days, and Lesser Sabbats, or Quarter Days

 

 

Greater Sabbats (Cross Quarter Days)

Samhain (October 31st / November 1st):

Samhain marks the beginning of the Celtic New Year and the end of the harvest season. It's a time when the veil between the physical world and the spirit world is believed to be thin, making it a significant time for honouring ancestors and the dead.

Imbolc (February 1st / 2nd):

Imbolc celebrates the midpoint between the winter solstice and the spring equinox. It's associated with the awakening of the earth and the first signs of spring. Traditionally, it's a time for purification, renewal, and honouring the Celtic goddess Brigid.

Beltane (April 30th / May 1st):

Beltane marks the beginning of summer and the peak of the spring season. It's a celebration of fertility, passion, and the abundance of life. Traditionally, it's a time for dancing around the maypole, lighting bonfires, and celebrating the union of the god and goddess.

Lughnasadh (August 1st / 2nd):

Lughnasadh, more commonly known as Lammas, is the first of the three harvest festivals. It's a time to celebrate the first fruits of the harvest and give thanks for the abundance of the earth. It's associated with the Celtic god Lugh and is a time for feasting, games, and community gatherings

 

Lesser Sabbats (Quarter Days)

Yule (Winter Solstice - around December 21st):

Yule marks the longest night of the year and the return of the sun. It's a celebration of the rebirth of the sun god and the promise of longer days ahead. Traditionally, it's a time for feasting, gift-giving, and decorating with evergreens.

Ostara (Spring Equinox - around March 21st):

Ostara celebrates the balance of light and dark as day and night become equal in length. It's a time of fertility, growth, and new beginnings. Traditionally, it's a time for planting seeds, decorating eggs, and celebrating the return of life to the earth.

Midsummer (Summer Solstice - around June 21st):

Midsummer marks the longest day of the year and the height of the summer season. It's a celebration of the sun's power and the abundance of nature. Traditionally, it's a time for bonfires, outdoor rituals, and honouring the fertility of the land.

Mabon (Autumn Equinox - around September 21st):

Mabon celebrates the second harvest and the balance of light and dark as day and night once again become equal. It's a time for giving thanks for the abundance of the earth and preparing for the darker half of the year. Traditionally, it's a time for feasting, apple picking, and honouring the balance of the natural world

 

Each Sabbat has its own rituals, symbols, and traditions, but they all share a common theme of honouring the cycles of nature and the changing seasons. More information, including recipes and activities will be added soon