Neo pagan celebrations in 2023 are expected to be more widespread and diverse than ever before. As the Neo pagan movement continues to grow and gain popularity, individuals and communities all over the world are embracing the traditions and practices of ancient pagan cultures. One of the main highlights of 2023 will be the celebration of the Sabbats, which are the eight seasonal festivals observed by many Neo pagans. These festivals mark the changing of the seasons and are deeply rooted in nature worship. Each Sabbat has its own significance and rituals associated with it, providing a meaningful way for Neo pagans to connect with the natural world. In addition to the Sabbats, Neo pagans will also partake in various other celebrations throughout the year.
1 Gantan-sai Shinto: New Year festival, also known as Shogatsu
There are many symbolic items you can use to create a Mabon altar, table centerpiece, wreath, or piece of art to adorn your home and bring in the positive energy of this festival. From ancient times, people around the world have marked seasonal turning points, using them as opportunities to give thanks, reflect on what they ve reaped, and prepare for what they will sow next.
In addition to the Sabbats, Neo pagans will also partake in various other celebrations throughout the year. These can range from small, intimate gatherings to large, public events. Some of the most anticipated celebrations in 2023 include Beltane, Litha, Mabon, and Samhain.
Neo pagan celebrations 2023
The Whidbey Island Pagan Pride Festival brings an array of vendors and workshops open to all.
By Luisa Loi • July 25, 2023 1:30 amA communal altar displaying, among different things, a statuette of Dionysus, a decorated skull to remember death, a chalice and three tarot cards divining the past, present and future. The altar represents different Pagan beliefs. (Photo by Aaron Taggert)
After debuting in 2019, the Whidbey Island Pagan Pride Festival returns to Coupeville Saturday, July 29, bringing an array of vendors and workshops that are open to all, pagans and non-pagans.
The event runs from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Coupeville Town Park.
“It’s nice to be back,” said Aaron Taggert, founder of the Eternal Spring Church on Whidbey Island, which sponsors the event. “Especially because the first event was so successful that there was a lot of interest in having the next one.”
Historically, “pagan” is an umbrella term that referred to people whose beliefs and traditions didn’t fall under the realm of Abrahamic religions — Christianity, Judaism and Islam. Today, according to the Encyclopedia Britannica, the once-derogatory term has been reclaimed by those communities, and is used interchangeably with modern pagan or neo-pagan to refer to groups that take inspiration from non-Abrahamic religions from around the world.
For example, Taggert is part of the Shoshone Tribe, a North American Indigenous group, and is a shaman. His faith has also been influenced by Wicca, Hinduism, Greek mythology, Italian witchcraft and more.
Though religious freedom is protected under the First Amendment, pagans may still face discrimination as they’re stereotyped as dangerous or are not taken seriously. With the risk of unemployment and relationship issues, many choose to keep their faith private, according to Taggert.
This pride event offers pagans the chance to freely express themselves with like-minded people, to build community and to learn more from one another. It is also an opportunity for non-pagans to challenge their own stereotypes and better understand their neighbors.
“Part of the whole purpose of Pagan Pride is to educate not only our own community, but the rest of the community,” Taggert said. “I think our modern lives isolated us, way more than we should ever be isolated. So coming out and seeing people that think differently or act differently enriches all of us.”
Pagan experts will hold workshops on polytheism, old Irish spells, Wiccan traditions, alternative burials, unlocking healing abilities and cord magic — a practice that consists of trapping an intention or desire in a knot and releasing it by untying the knot.
The event also features 13 vendors selling handmade art, beauty and wellness products and games.
11 Forgiveness Sunday Orthodox Christian: Day of preparation for Lent, also known as Cheesefare Sunday
Beltane, also known as May Day, is a celebration of fertility and the coming of summer. It is often marked by bonfires, dancing, and the weaving of floral wreaths. Litha, or the summer solstice, honors the height of the sun's power and is a time for abundance and growth. Mabon, the autumnal equinox, represents the harvest and a time of gratitude for the Earth's bounty. Lastly, Samhain, also known as Halloween, is a time to celebrate the thinning of the veil between the living and the dead, as well as a time to honor ancestors. These celebrations provide a sense of community and connection for Neo pagans, allowing them to come together in honoring and observing their shared beliefs. They provide an opportunity for individuals to express their spirituality, connect with nature, and celebrate the cycles of life. Overall, Neo pagan celebrations in 2023 promise to be a vibrant and diverse experience for those who participate. These gatherings offer a chance for individuals to connect with nature, honor ancient traditions, and celebrate the beauty of the natural world. Whether through small gatherings or large festivals, Neo pagans will come together to celebrate and express their spirituality in a way that is meaningful to them and their community..
Reviews for "Celebrating the Divine Masculine: Neo Pagan Festivals in 2023"
1. Amanda - 1/5 - I was really disappointed with "Neo pagan celebrations 2023". The whole event felt disorganized and poorly planned. The advertised activities were either canceled or changed last minute, and there was a lack of communication about these changes. Additionally, the event grounds were not well-maintained, with garbage and debris scattered everywhere. Overall, it was a frustrating and unsatisfying experience.
2. Mark - 2/5 - I had high hopes for "Neo pagan celebrations 2023" based on the marketing, but it fell short of my expectations. The main issue was the overcrowding. The organizers clearly oversold tickets, leading to long lines and difficulty finding a decent spot to participate in the rituals and ceremonies. The lack of space also made it challenging to move around and enjoy the various vendor booths. While I appreciate the effort put into the event, the execution left much to be desired.
3. Sarah - 2/5 - "Neo pagan celebrations 2023" was not what I had envisioned. The whole event felt commercialized and lacked a genuine sense of community. Many aspects appeared to be more about making money than celebrating paganism. Additionally, the choice of vendors was disappointing, with a focus on generic commercial products rather than unique and authentic offerings. I expected more authenticity and connection to nature, but unfortunately, it felt like just another run-of-the-mill festival.
4. Jason - 1/5 - "Neo pagan celebrations 2023" was a complete letdown. The workshops and seminars advertised were very basic and lacked depth. I expected to have my mind expanded and learn new insights about neo-paganism, but instead, it felt like a watered-down introduction to the subject. The presenters seemed more interested in selling their books and merchandise than genuinely educating attendees. Overall, I left feeling unsatisfied and unimpressed with the event's content and quality.