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 ...
Winter
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 ...
Disablot: Honoring Ancestral Goddesses, Valkyries, and Norns
To our ancient ancestors in Scandinavia, the earth was alive and teeming with spirits. There were spirits of the land, gods and goddesses in the sky, and ancestors all around us. Our primitive, powerful male ancestors were the Alfar who lived in the mounds. And our nurturing, yet sometimes ...
Imbolc Blessings, Colors, Spells, and Divination Methods
For many of us, we are still in the thralls of Winter. The snow might be lingering and the icy cold weather seems to penetrate one’s bones. For others, we are starting to see small signs that Spring is around the corner. Whatever your weather where you live, one thing is for sure – ...
Imbolc Crystals and Herbs: 20 for Brigid’s Day Rituals
Maybe it’s still bitter cold where you live. Or maybe the snow is starting to melt. Either way, February 1st marks the beginning of the end of Winter. As well as the Celtic sabbat Imbolc, also called Brigid’s Day. Take this time to reflect, cast spells and make potent magick with ...
Imbolc Foods: 10 Magical Meals & Drinks for Brigid’s Day
Imbolc, also called St. Brigid’s Day, approaches on February 1st. For many, it’s the magical first stirrings of Spring. It’s the white blooms poking up through the snow. The bleat of a newborn lamb. The blustery winds begin to warm ever-so-slightly. We hear fairy music in 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 ...