When the Winter Solstice knocks at the door, we hunker down and prepare for the cold days ahead. As does the wildlife. But before we completely go into hibernation, let’s meet some of the Winter Animals, the magical Christmas creatures that share some of our most beloved Yuletide legends ...
yule
Iceland’s Gryla the Christmas Witch, the Yule Lads, and Yule Cat
When Santa Claus has abandoned you and something dark knocks at your door…beware the Gryla the Christmas witch and her ghastly horde! Did you know there’s a dark side to Christmas? Most people have heard of Krampus, but there is a whole legion of Yuletide monsters just waiting to be ...
There’s a crisp hint of magic in the air. And a sense of warmth and comfort fills our homes. Stockings are hung at the mantle and mama’s baking cookies in the kitchen. Face it. Winter Solstice, aka. Yule, is one of the most enchanting times of the years. It’s a time of giving ...
I know most pagans are all about Autumn and the Samhain season. But I have a not-so-secret secret…I’m all about the Winter and Yule holiday season. I love the cozy, family vibes during the Winter Solstice. The food, the decorations, the gifts, the traditions, and most of all the ...
The Wild Hunt And Its Leaders, Wodan & Gwynn ap Nudd
The wind is howling just outside your window. The bitter cold seeps in from under the door. The season’s formidable storms are coming…and so is the Wild Hunt. Be ye witch or be ye familiar, you may choose to partake in this festive procession and join your infernal comrades amidst the storm. ...
Krampusnacht: 12 Ways to Celebrate Night of the Christmas Devil
When the bell tolls, Krampus runs down your street. He knows you’ve been a naughty child and he’s ready to pop you into his pack and give your bottom a smack. Heard of him? Interest in the Christmas Devil known as Krampus is growing worldwide. In light of this particularly unruly ...
Apple Magical Properties, Lore, and Ways to Use in Your Witchcraft
An apple a day keeps the doctor away. Or so they say. Apples are one of those fruits, that if fruits were people, they would be the ruler of the fruit kingdom. One of its names is the “fruit of the gods”, for crying out loud. Why are apples just so freaking magical? And why are they ...
Winter Solstice Blessings, Yule Spells and SNOWY Divinations
As the nights grow longer and a chill permeates the air, we begin to settle in to our homes and warm blankets more and more. I absolutely love this time of year. When stringing lights from every rooftop and tree isn’t extravagant, it’s welcomed and sometimes expected. When drinks ...
The Winter Holidays are a time for feasting, gift-giving, family time and revelry. And along with all the fun to be had, there’s typically also stress. We end up spending a lot of time around others which can leave us feeling drained and frazzled. What better way to care for yourself than ...
Out of all the things I associate with the Christmas and Winter holidays, a pickle wasn’t one of them. Until last year when I was given a glass ornament for the Yule tree in the shape of a pickle. And yes, like you, I definitely scrunched my eyebrows a bit and wrinkled my nose. Why is ...