Neo pagan holidays are a critical aspect of modern paganism, bringing together people who follow Earth-based spiritual practices and traditions. These holidays, also known as sabbats, are derived from ancient pagan cultures and celebrate the changing seasons and cycles of nature. The neo pagan calendar typically consists of eight major holidays, which are evenly spaced throughout the year. These holidays are typically based on the solar and agricultural cycles and provide opportunities for pagans to connect with nature and the divine. The Wheel of the Year, as it is commonly known, begins with the winter solstice, also known as Yule. Celebrated around December 21st, Yule marks the longest night of the year and signifies the rebirth of the sun and the return of light.
Calendar
We can attune to nature’s rhythms by celebrating the changing seasons. We can also bond with our fellows, and gain insight into humanity through observing shared holidays.
Celebrated around December 21st, Yule marks the longest night of the year and signifies the rebirth of the sun and the return of light. It is a time for pagans to celebrate the renewal of life and the resilience of nature. Imbolc, celebrated around February 2nd, marks the halfway point between the winter solstice and the spring equinox.
Wheel of the Year
Like other Neopagans, Naturalistc Pagans celebrate the Wheel of the Year. The following links, hosted at Patheos.com, offer naturalistic ways to attune to the Wheel.
Names are listed here according to common Neopagan tradition, as well as natural phenomena. The solstices and equinoxes represent points in the solar cycle, while the cross-quarters mark the midpoints between them. Jon Cleland Host calls the cross-quarters thermistices and equitherms, to reflect changes in climatic temperature. A full overview of the 8 Sabbats is at this post.
- Yule / Winter Solstice
- Imbolc / Winter Thermistice
- Ostara / Vernal Equinox
- Beltane / Vernal Equitherm
- Litha / Summer Solstice
- Lammas / Summer Thermistice
- Mabon / Autumnal Equinox
- Samhain / Autumnal Equitherm
Rua Lupa of Ehoah has proposed an even more original nomenclature:
For ritual scripts for each point on the Wheel, see our Rituals page.
See Archaeoastronomy.com for precise dates and times.
It is a time for purification and preparation for the coming spring. Imbolc is associated with the Celtic goddess Brigid and is often celebrated with candlelight processions and the making of Brigid's crosses. Ostara, celebrated around the spring equinox, is a time of balance and fertility. It marks the beginning of spring and the awakening of the earth. Pagans often engage in rituals and activities that honor the return of life and the fertility of the land. Beltane, celebrated on May 1st, is a time of fertility and joy. It marks the start of summer and the peak of springtime abundance. Beltane is often celebrated with bonfires, Maypole dancing, and rituals that honor the union of the god and goddess. Midsummer, also known as Litha, is celebrated around the summer solstice. It is a time to celebrate the height of the sun's power and the abundance of the earth. Pagans often gather in outdoor settings to connect with nature and honor the sun through rituals and festivities. Lughnasadh, celebrated around August 1st, marks the beginning of the harvest season. It is a time to give thanks for the bounty of the earth and celebrate the first fruits of the harvest. Lughnasadh is often celebrated with feasting, games, and rituals that honor the grain goddess. Mabon, celebrated around the autumn equinox, is a time of balance and gratitude. It marks the second harvest and the beginning of the descent into the darker half of the year. Pagans often engage in rituals and activities that honor the abundance of the harvest and the changing seasons. Samhain, celebrated on October 31st, is perhaps the most well-known neo pagan holiday. It marks the end of the harvest season and the beginning of the new year for pagans. Samhain is a time to honor and communicate with ancestors and loved ones who have passed away. It is often celebrated with ceremonies, divination practices, and the lighting of bonfires. Overall, neo pagan holidays provide pagans with opportunities to connect with nature, celebrate the cycles of life and the changing seasons, and honor their spiritual beliefs. These holidays serve as reminders of the interconnectedness of all things and the importance of living in harmony with the Earth..
Reviews for "Mabon: Giving Thanks in the Neo Pagan Tradition"
1. John - 2 stars - While I appreciate the effort to revive ancient pagan holidays, "Neo pagan holidays" fell short for me. The book lacked depth and failed to provide sufficient historical context for these holidays. Additionally, the instructions for celebrating each holiday were vague and seemed more like a mishmash of modern practices rather than true pagan traditions. Overall, I found the book to be quite disappointing, and it did not meet my expectations as a reader interested in learning about neo-paganism.
2. Sarah - 1 star - I was excited to explore the world of neo-pagan holidays through this book, but unfortunately, it was a major letdown. The author's writing style was confusing and convoluted, making it difficult to follow and fully comprehend the concepts presented. Moreover, the book lacked visual aids or illustrations, which would have greatly helped in understanding the rituals and practices associated with each holiday. I found myself constantly searching for external sources to make sense of the information provided. In the end, I didn't feel like I gained any valuable knowledge from "Neo pagan holidays," and I wouldn't recommend it to others.
3. Emma - 2 stars - As someone interested in spirituality and alternative beliefs, I was eager to delve into the world of neo-paganism. However, "Neo pagan holidays" left me disappointed and disenchanted. The book lacked clear organization, with information scattered throughout the chapters and no cohesive structure. The rituals and practices described felt uninspiring and arbitrary, lacking the depth and richness that I was hoping to find. Additionally, the writing style was dry and monotonous, making it difficult to engage with the material. Overall, I believe there are better resources available for those interested in learning about neo-pagan holidays.