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Pagan Holidays: Meaning, History, and Celebrations


Young pagan Slavic girl conduct ceremony on Midsummer by ch__ch from Getty Images
Image by ch__ch from Getty Images

Pagan Holidays


Pagan holidays are celebrations that have been observed for centuries and are still celebrated today. These holidays are rooted in ancient traditions and beliefs that have been passed down through generations. Pagan holidays are often associated with nature, the changing seasons, and cycles of the moon.


Understanding pagan holidays can be a fascinating journey into the past and the present.


Many of these holidays have their origins in ancient agricultural societies and were celebrated to mark the changing of the seasons, the planting and harvesting of crops, and the movement of the sun and the moon. Today, these holidays are still celebrated by many people around the world, often with a modern twist.


Key Takeaways

  • Pagan holidays have been celebrated for centuries and are still celebrated today.

  • These holidays have their origins in ancient agricultural societies and were celebrated to mark the changing of the seasons, the planting and harvesting of crops, and the movement of the sun and the moon.

  • Pagan holidays are often associated with nature, the changing of the seasons, the sun, the moon, and the stars.


boletus mushrooms in pagan by Stephan Zabel from Getty Images Signature
Image by Stephan Zabel from Getty Images Signature

Why Celebrate the Pagan Holidays?


If you are interested in paganism or modern pagan practices, it is essential to understand the significance of the pagan holidays. These celebrations, also known as sabbats, are an integral part of pagan spirituality and are often based on seasonal festivals.


Though every pagan practices their spirituality differently depending on their background, lineage, beliefs, and values. Some choose to celebrate only certain holidays, the same holidays but in honor of different deities or no deity at all.


Needless to say we are all an eclectic bunch. Today's overview will hopefully be able to help you better understand the generally recognized traditions and how you might want to incorporate them into your own practice.


Some pagans choose to observe the holidays for no other reason than to stay in tuned with the wheel of the year and create traditions that they can pass on to their little ones.


Wheel of the Year - Image from pixabay
Image from pixabay

What is the Wheel of the Year?


The Wheel of the Year is a term used to describe the eight major pagan holidays that make up the sabbats. It represents the changing of the seasons and the work that is done in each.


These holidays are divided into two categories: quarter days and cross-quarter days.


Quarter days, also known as solstices and equinoxes, mark the changing of seasons and are celebrated in many cultures around the world. Cross-quarter days, on the other hand, fall between the quarter days and are unique to pagan traditions.


Each of the eight sabbats has its own significance and symbolism.


For example, Samhain, celebrated on October 31st, marks the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter. It is also considered a time when the veil between the living and the dead is thinnest, making it a popular time for honoring the ancestors and loved ones who've passed.


Other sabbats include Yule, celebrated on the winter solstice, that observes the rebirth of the sun and the return of longer days; Ostara, celebrated on the spring equinox, which represents new beginnings and the renewal of life; and Beltane, celebrated on May 1st, which marks the beginning of summer and the fertility of the earth.


While the origins of some pagan holidays are rooted in ancient traditions, modern pagans often adapt and personalize their celebrations to fit their own spiritual beliefs and practices.


Some pagans choose to celebrate only certain sabbats, while others observe all eight.


Whatever your personal beliefs may be, understanding the significance of pagan holidays can deepen your connection to nature and the cycles of the seasons.


Origins of Pagan Holidays


Pagan holidays have a rich history that dates back to ancient times, perhaps further as we will see is the case with Samhain.


Many of these holidays were based on the cycles of the seasons, sun, moon, and the procession of the stars, and were celebrated by various cultures around the world.


In this section, we'll explore the presumed origins of pagan holidays and how they have evolved over time.


Celtic Cross by mrmac59 from Getty Images
Image by mrmac59 from Getty Images

Celtic Holidays


The Celts were a group of people who lived in Europe during the Iron Age.


They celebrated four major festivals throughout the year, known as Imbolc, Beltane, Lughnasadh, and Samhain.


These festivals were based on the cycles of the sun and marked important agricultural events, such as planting and harvesting. Many of the traditions associated with these festivals have been incorporated into modern-day celebrations, such as Halloween.


A viking sword in front of a viking settlement hall by Lorado from Getty Images Signature
Image by Lorado from Getty Images Signature

Norse Holidays


The Norse people, who lived in Scandinavia during the Viking Age, celebrated a number of holidays throughout the year.


These holidays were based on the cycles of the sun, moon, and seasons (seeing a pattern here?), and were often associated with important events in Norse mythology.


Some of the most well-known Norse holidays include Yule, which celebrated the winter solstice, and Midsummer, which marked the summer solstice. It should be obvious to everyone, the connection between Yule and Christmas.


The Roman Colosseum by Kbarzycki from Getty Images
Image by Kbarzycki from Getty Images

Roman Holidays


The Romans celebrated a number of festivals throughout the year, many of which were based on the cycles of the sun and moon. Some of the most well-known Roman festivals include Saturnalia, which was celebrated in December and marked the winter solstice, and Lupercalia, which was celebrated in February and was associated with fertility and purification.


Untitled by wallner from pixabay
Image by wallner from pixabay

Greek Holidays


The Greeks celebrated a number of festivals throughout the year, many of which were based on the cycles of the sun and moon.


Some of the most well-known Greek festivals include the Eleusinian Mysteries, which were celebrated to honor the goddess Demeter and her daughter Persephone, or the Festival of Dionysus, which was celebrated in honor of the god of wine and fertility.


Gerald Gardner


Gerald Gardner was an Englishman who is credited with founding the modern Wiccan movement.

Gerald Gardner, Image from Wikipedia
Image from Wikipedia

Gardner believed that pagan holidays were an important part of Wiccan practice, and he incorporated many of the traditions associated with these holidays into his teachings. It was really his work that enabled many modern day pagans to create new traditions and reclaim older ones.


Today, many Wiccans celebrate the same holidays that were celebrated by ancient pagan cultures, such as the solstices and equinoxes. Though the traditions of modern pagans, Wiccan or not, are miles removed from the practices of ancient peoples, it remains a powerful way to connect with our heritage in a profound way.


So what are the modern versions of these ancient holidays?


Pagan Holidays and the Seasons


Pagan holidays are often associated with the changing of the seasons.


These holidays celebrate the cycles of nature and the turning of the wheel of the year. There are four major pagan holidays, also known as Sabbats, that are celebrated throughout the year.


These Sabbats are divided into two categories: the solstices and the equinoxes.


The two solstices recognize both the longest and shortest days of the year. The winter solstice, also known as Yule, is celebrated around December 21st and marks the longest night of the year. It is a time to celebrate the rebirth of the sun and the return of light.


The summer solstice, also known as Litha or Midsummer, is celebrated around June 21st and marks the longest day of the year. It is a time to celebrate the power of the sun and the abundance of life.


The equinoxes mark the balance between day and night.


The spring equinox, also known as Ostara, is celebrated around March 21st and marks the first day of spring. It is a time to celebrate new beginnings, growth, and fertility.


The autumn equinox, also known as Mabon, is celebrated around September 21st and marks the first day of fall. It is a time to celebrate the harvest and to give thanks for the abundance of the earth.


Each of these Sabbats has its own unique traditions and rituals. For example, during the winter solstice, it is common to light candles and decorate trees to symbolize the return of light. During the spring equinox, it is common to plant seeds and decorate eggs to symbolize new beginnings and fertility. These traditions vary depending on the specific pagan tradition and the region in which it is practiced.


In addition to the four major Sabbats, there are also other pagan holidays that are celebrated throughout the year. These holidays are often associated with specific natural phenomena or events, such as the first day of summer or the harvest moon.


These holidays are celebrated in a similar way to the Sabbats, with rituals and traditions that honor the cycles of nature and the turning of the wheel of the year.


Major Pagan Holidays Explained


Paganism is a set of religions that have been around for centuries. It is based on the worship of nature and the cycles of the seasons, in a pinch. Most pagan religions revere some sort of deity or a pantheons of deities.


However, regardless of specific belief systems, many pagans observe some key holidays by one name or another.


The four discussed above show up all around the world and throughout history by one name or another.


For modern pagans in the West, there are eight major holidays, or Sabbats, that are celebrated throughout the year. Each holiday has its own significance and rituals. Here are the eight major Pagan holidays that you should know about:


Winter Solstice Day Holiday, December 21. Sun, Moon, Golden Star by Julia Metkalova from Julia Metkalova
Image by Julia Metkalova

Imbolc (Candlemas)


Imbolc is celebrated on February 1st and is also known as Candlemas. It is a time to celebrate new beginnings and the first signs of spring.


This holiday most often honors the goddess Brigid, who is associated with healing, poetry, and smithcraft. Some of the rituals associated with Imbolc include lighting candles, making corn dollies, and performing divination.


Gods and Goddesses Commonly Celebrated During Imbolc


Brigid


Brigid is one of the most widely recognized goddesses associated with Imbolc. She is a Celtic goddess of fire, healing, poetry, and craftsmanship.


Lugh


Lugh is an Irish god of light, creativity, and skill. He is associated with the increasing daylight and the approaching spring.


Danu


Danu is an ancient Celtic mother goddess, representing the earth, fertility, and abundance. She is often honored during Imbolc for the promise of new growth.


Eos/Aurora


In Greek mythology, Eos is the goddess of the dawn. Her association with the increasing light and the awakening of the earth aligns well with the themes of Imbolc.


Freyja


Freyja is a Norse goddess associated with love, beauty, and fertility. She is often honored during this time of year to welcome the return of life and fertility to the lan


Easter (Ostara, Eoster) bunny with egg shaped candles on white background with copy space by mashimara from Getty Images
Image by mashimara from Getty Images

Ostara (Spring Equinox)


Ostara is celebrated on the spring equinox, usually around March 20th.


It is a time to celebrate the rebirth of the earth and the return of the sun. This holiday is associated with fertility and new growth. Some of the rituals associated with Ostara include planting seeds, decorating eggs, and performing rituals to honor the goddess Eostre.


Modern day, non-pagan Easter celebrations pull much of their symbolism from Ostara traditions.


Gods and Goddesses Commonly Celebrated During Ostara


Ostara/Eostre


The namesake of the holiday, Ostara is a Germanic goddess associated with the dawn and the arrival of spring. She represents new beginnings, fertility, and the awakening of nature.


Persephone


In Greek mythology, Persephone is the daughter of Demeter and the queen of the Underworld. Her return from the Underworld during the Spring Equinox symbolizes the rebirth of nature and the cycle of life.


Cernunnos


Cernunnos is a Celtic god associated with the forest, animals, and fertility. He represents the masculine energy of nature and is often celebrated during Ostara for his role in the renewal and growth of life.


Flora


Flora is a Roman goddess of flowers and the blooming of plants. She is honored during Ostara for her association with the beauty and abundance of the spring season.


Pan


Pan is a Greek god of nature, wilderness, and shepherds. He is often revered during Ostara for his association with the awakening of the wild and the celebration of life's vitality.


Top view of wooden pentagram in grass and flowers by VeraPetruk from Getty Images
Image by VeraPetruk from Getty Images

Beltane (May Day)


Beltane is celebrated on May 1st and is also known as May Day.


It is a time to celebrate the fertility of the earth and the coming of summer. This holiday is associated with the god and goddess, who are seen as lovers. Some of the rituals associated with Beltane include dancing around the maypole, lighting bonfires, and performing rituals to honor the god and goddess.


Gods and Goddesses Commonly Celebrated During Beltane


Belenus


The namesake of the holiday ("Beltane" meaning "the fires of Bel"), Belenus is a Celtic sun god associated with fertility, passion, and the abundance of summer. He represents the vibrant life force and the energy of the growing season.


The Green Man


The Green Man is a nature deity that appears in various pagan traditions. He symbolizes the spirit of the forest, the vitality of plants, and the cycle of growth and decay.


Aphrodite


Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love, beauty, and desire, is honored during Beltane for her association with passion, sensuality, and the blossoming of romantic relationships.


Freyr


Freyr is a Norse god associated with fertility, prosperity, and the bountiful harvest. As the lord of sunshine and rain, he represents the abundance of the growing season.


Epona


Epona is a Celtic goddess associated with horses, fertility, and abundance. She is often celebrated during Beltane as a guardian of animals and a symbol of the fertile land.


Midsummer fire by Claudia Schmidt from Getty Images
Image by Claudia Schmidt from Getty Images

Litha (Midsummer, Summer Solstice)


Litha is celebrated on the summer solstice, usually around June 21st.


It is a time to celebrate the longest day of the year and the power of the sun. This holiday is associated with growth and abundance. Some of the rituals associated with Litha include lighting bonfires, making flower crowns, and performing rituals to honor the sun god.


Gods and Goddesses Commonly Celebrated During Litha


Hathor


Hathor is an Egyptian goddess associated with joy, beauty, and the sun. She is honored during Litha for her association with the solar disc and the life-giving properties of sunlight.


Ra


Ra is the ancient Egyptian sun god, representing the sun's warmth, light, and life-giving energy. He is revered on Litha for his connection to the summer solstice and the zenith of the sun's power.


Hestia/Vesta


Hestia, known as Vesta in Roman mythology, is the goddess of the hearth, home, and family. She is revered during Litha as the guardian of the sacred fire, which represents the warmth and light of summer.


Sunna/Sol


Sunna is a Norse goddess associated with the sun and the daylight. She represents the power and warmth of the sun during the height of summer and is honored on Litha for her radiant energy.


Apollo


In Greek mythology, Apollo is the god of the sun, light, and music. He is often celebrated during Litha for his association with the sun's peak power and the joyous festivities that accompany the summer season.


Fresh Corn Cobs by vasiliybudarinphotos
Image by vasiliybudarinphotos

Lammas (Lughnasadh)


Lammas is celebrated on August 1st and is also known as Lughnasadh.


It is a time to celebrate the first harvest of the year. This holiday honors the god Lugh, who is associated with harvest and craftsmanship. Some of the rituals associated with Lammas include baking bread, making corn dollies, and performing rituals to honor the god Lugh.


Gods and Goddesses Commonly Celebrated During Lammas


Lugh/Lugus


Lugh is a Celtic god associated with craftsmanship, skill, and the harvest. He is often honored during Lammas as the god of the grain harvest and the provider of abundance.


Adonis


Adonis is a Greek god associated with vegetation, rebirth, and the cycle of life and death. He is revered during Lammas as a deity who represents the ripening and harvesting of crops.


Cerridwen


Cerridwen is a Welsh goddess associated with transformation, inspiration, and the harvest. She is often honored during Lammas for her connection to the harvest of both physical and spiritual abundance.


Demeter/Ceres


Demeter is a Greek goddess of agriculture, fertility, and the harvest. She is revered during Lammas for her role in ensuring a bountiful harvest and the abundance of the land.


Pomona


Pomona is a Roman goddess of orchards, fruit, and abundance. She is honored during Lammas as a symbol of the fruit harvest and the blessings of the harvest season.


Apple Harvest Still LIfe by jgroup from Getty Images
Image by jgroup from Getty Images

Mabon (Autumn Equinox)


Mabon is celebrated on the autumn equinox, usually around September 21st.


It is a time to celebrate the second harvest of the year and the coming of fall. This holiday is associated with balance and gratitude. Some of the rituals associated with Mabon include making apple cider, decorating with fall leaves, and performing rituals to honor the goddess.


Gods and Goddesses Commonly Celebrated During Mabon


Mabon


Mabon is named after the holiday itself and represents the god of the harvest and the second harvest festival of the year. He embodies the energy of the waning year, the gathering of crops, and the preparation for the darker months ahead.


Dionysus


Dionysus is the Greek god of wine, celebration, and ecstasy. He represents the joyous and abundant aspects of life. During Mabon, he is celebrated for the fruits of the vine and the spirit of revelry that accompanies the harvest season.


Hermes


Hermes is a Greek god associated with communication, travel, and commerce. During Mabon, he is celebrated for his role in facilitating the exchange of goods and the transition into the darker months.


Hecate


Hecate is a Greek goddess associated with magic, witchcraft, and the crossroads. She embodies the liminal spaces and the transitions between seasons. Hecate is honored during Mabon for her guidance and protection during the changing seasons.


Thor


Thor is a Norse god associated with thunder, storms, and fertility. He represents the strength and protection needed during the autumn season. Thor is revered during Mabon for his connection to the natural forces and the blessings of the harvest.


Samhain by Adria Bates from Getty Images
Image by Adria Bates from Getty Images

Samhain (Halloween)


Samhain is celebrated on October 31st and is also known as Halloween.


It is a time to celebrate the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter. This holiday is associated with death and the thinning of the veil between the living and the dead.

Some of the rituals associated with Samhain include carving pumpkins, setting up ancestor altars, and performing rituals to honor the dead.


Now Samhain, Halloween, the Day of the Dead, whatever you celebrate is a very interesting case. Many scholars have discovered that this particular holiday has been celebrated in some form by nearly every culture around the world and throughout history since the beginning of known civilization. It is probably the oldest holiday known to man.


There is a video you should watch about the history of Halloween. I have it linked here. But in my opinion this is the most important pagan holiday, and in my opinion the most important non-pagan holiday as well.



Gods and Goddesses Commonly Celebrated During Samhain


Odin


Odin is a Norse god associated with wisdom, magic, and the dead. He is revered during Samhain for his knowledge of the spirit world and his ability to communicate with ancestors and spirits.


Hades


Hades is the Greek god of the underworld and ruler of the dead. He is honored during Samhain for his association with the realm of the deceased and the passage of souls into the afterlife.


Hel


Hel is a Norse goddess who rules over the realm of the dead. She represents the cold, dark, and silent aspects of the afterlife. Hel is revered during Samhain for her connection to the ancestors and the realm of the departed.


Osiris


Osiris is an Egyptian god associated with resurrection, rebirth, and the afterlife. He is celebrated during Samhain for his role in the cycle of death and rebirth, and his connection to the eternal soul.


The Cailleach


Scot/Irish goddess known as the hag. She brings storms and represents the dying of the earth. It is said that she "is born old at Samhain ... but grows ever younger over time until she is a beautiful maiden at Bealtaine."


Yule goat under the Christmas tree by invizbk from Getty Images Signature
Image by invizbk from Getty Images Signature

Yule (Winter Solstice)


Yule is celebrated on the winter solstice, usually around December 21st.


It is a time to celebrate the rebirth of the sun and the return of light. This holiday is associated with magic and power. Some of the rituals associated with Yule include lighting candles, decorating with evergreens, and performing rituals to honor the sun god.


In conclusion, Paganism has eight major holidays that are celebrated throughout the year. Each holiday has its own significance and rituals. These holidays are associated with new beginnings, rebirth, fertility, abundance, harvest, death, love, power, and magic.


Gods and Goddesses Commonly Celebrated During Yule


Odin


Odin is a prominent Norse god associated with wisdom, magic, and the pursuit of knowledge. During Yule, he is honored for his role as the leader of the Wild Hunt, bringing gifts and blessings to the people during the darkest time of the year.


Saturn


Saturn is a Roman god associated with agriculture, abundance, and time. During Yule, the festival of Saturnalia is celebrated in his honor, marking the turning point of winter and the beginning of longer days.


Holly King


The Holly King is a mythical figure in Celtic mythology who reigns during the winter months. He represents the waning year and the cycle of life and death. During Yule, the Holly King is celebrated for his role in the seasonal transition.


Apollo


Apollo is a Greek god associated with the sun, music, and healing. During Yule, he is celebrated for his association with the return of light and the hope for a prosperous year ahead.


Baldur


Baldur is a Norse god associated with light, beauty, and rebirth. He represents the return of the sun after the longest night of the year. Baldur is celebrated during Yule as a symbol of hope and the triumph of light over darkness.


Pentagram - Witch, Wicca, Pagan symbol made of lavender flower spikes against gray  grey slate background by CreativeFire from Getty Images Pro
Image by CreativeFire from Getty Images Pro

Symbolism in Pagan Holidays


Pagan holidays are rich in symbolism. They are often tied to the cycles of nature, the seasons, and the movements of the sun, moon, and stars. These holidays are a celebration of the natural world and the cycles of life.


One of the most important symbols in pagan holidays is the sun. The sun is seen as a symbol of life, warmth, and energy. Many pagan holidays are tied to the movements of the sun, such as the solstices and equinoxes. These holidays mark the changing of the seasons and the cycles of life.


Nature is another important symbol in pagan holidays. The natural world is seen as a source of life and energy. Many pagan holidays are tied to the cycles of nature, such as the changing of the seasons, the growth of plants, and the movements of animals.


Fire is also an important symbol in pagan holidays. Fire is seen as a symbol of transformation and purification. Many pagan holidays involve the lighting of fires, such as bonfires or candles. These fires are often used to symbolize the burning away of old habits and the welcoming of new beginnings.


Water is another important symbol, representing life and renewal. Many pagan holidays involve the use of water, such as the pouring of water or the taking of a ritual bath. These practices are often used to symbolize the washing away of old patterns and the welcoming of new growth.


Trees are seen as a symbol of life and growth. Some pagan holidays involve the planting or blessing of trees. These practices are often used to symbolize the growth and renewal of life.


The sky is also an important symbol in pagan holidays. The sky is seen as a symbol of the divine and the infinite. Many pagan holidays involve the observation of the stars or the movements of the planets. These practices are often used to symbolize the connection between the natural world and the divine.


Finally, the underworld/death is an important symbol in pagan holidays and much of paganism in general. The underworld is seen as a symbol of transformation and rebirth. Many pagan holidays involve the honoring of ancestors or the practice of divination. These practices are often used to symbolize the connection between the living and the dead, and the cycles of life and death.


Overall, the symbolism in pagan holidays is rich and varied. These symbols are used to connect us to the cycles of nature and the divine, and to help us find meaning and purpose in our lives.


Shamanic tambourine by Natalia Silyanov from Getty Images
Image by Natalia Silyanov from Getty Images

Pagan Holidays in Different Cultures


Pagan holidays are still celebrated in many cultures around the world, and each culture has its own unique traditions and customs. Some have been passed down for hundreds of years if not longer, and some are modern reclamations of older traditions from history books.


In the southern hemisphere, the seasons are reversed, and pagan holidays are celebrated at different times of the year. For example, the winter solstice falls in June, and the summer solstice falls in December. This means that holidays like Yule and Litha are celebrated at different times of the year, depending on where you are in the world.


Despite these differences, pagan holidays share some common themes and symbols. Many holidays are associated with the cycles of nature, such as the changing of the seasons or the phases of the moon.


Symbols like the sun, moon, and stars are often used to represent these cycles, and many celebrations involve rituals and ceremonies that honor the natural world.


Whether you are celebrating the winter solstice in Germany or the summer solstice in the southern hemisphere, pagan holidays offer a chance to connect with nature and honor the cycles of life.


By participating in these traditions, you can deepen your connection to the natural world and gain a greater appreciation for the beauty and wonder of the universe.


Pagan Holidays and Christianity


In the early days of Christianity, the church struggled to gain a foothold in the Roman Empire. One way they sought to do this was by adopting and adapting pagan holidays and traditions to make them more Christian-friendly.


This strategy helped to make Christianity more acceptable to the masses, but it also led to some confusion and controversy.


One of the most prominent examples of this is Christmas. The holiday we now know as Christmas has some of its roots in the pagan festival of Saturnalia (as well as Yule and other older religious traditions), which was celebrated in late December. Christians adopted this holiday to celebrate the birth of Jesus, but many of the traditions associated with Christmas, such as gift-giving and decorating trees, have pagan origins.


Romans celebrating Saturnalia used to line the streets, trees, and buildings with candles like our modern Christmas lights. They would give gifts to those less fortunate than them, and everyone would be equal for the day (or longer depending on the time in history.)


Another example is Halloween. Originally a pagan holiday known as Samhain to the Celts, though we discussed its possibly even older lineage above, was celebrated on October 31 to mark the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter.


Christians later adopted this holiday as All Saints' Day, which was celebrated on November 1. However, many of the traditional Halloween activities, such as dressing up in costumes and carving pumpkins, have pagan origins.


And even Easter with its rabbits and eggs symbolism can be traced to pagan traditions from much earlier.


Despite the controversy surrounding the adoption of pagan holidays by Christianity, it is clear that these holidays have had a significant impact on the way we celebrate today. By incorporating pagan traditions into Christian holidays, the church was able to make these holidays more accessible to a wider audience. Today, many people celebrate these holidays without even realizing their pagan roots.


Overall, the relationship between pagan holidays and Christianity is complex and multifaceted.


While some may argue that the church should have stayed true to its roots and avoided adopting pagan traditions, it is clear that this strategy helped to make Christianity more accessible and relevant to the masses.


Lovely girls in flower wreaths in nature. Ancient pagan origin celebration concept. Summer solstice day. Mid summer. Ancient rituals by danilsnegmb from Getty Images
Image by danilsnegmb from Getty Images

Modern Celebrations of Pagan Holidays


If you are interested in celebrating Pagan holidays, you will find that there are many ways to do so in modern times. While some people choose to celebrate in a traditional manner, others have adapted these holidays to fit their own unique beliefs and practices.


One way that many people celebrate Pagan holidays is by performing rituals. These rituals can be as simple or as complex as you like, and can involve anything from lighting candles to chanting to dancing around a maypole. Some people also choose to incorporate symbols of the holiday into their rituals, such as grains or vegetation.


Another popular way to celebrate Pagan holidays is by participating in community events.


Many Pagan groups hold festivals and gatherings throughout the year, where people can come together to celebrate and connect with one another. These events often include workshops, music, and other activities that are designed to help people deepen their understanding of the holiday and its significance.


If you prefer to celebrate Pagan holidays in a more private setting, you can do so by creating your own rituals and traditions.


For example, you might choose to create an altar in your home that is dedicated to the holiday, or you might choose to prepare a special meal that incorporates foods that are traditionally associated with the holiday.


Overall, there are many ways to celebrate Pagan holidays in modern times. Whether you choose to participate in community events, perform your own rituals, or simply reflect on the significance of the holiday, there is no right or wrong way to celebrate.


The most important thing is to honor the traditions and beliefs that have been passed down through generations, while also adapting them to fit your own unique perspective and experience.


FAQ About Pagan Holidays


What holidays came from paganism?


Many modern holidays have roots in pagan traditions. Some examples include:

  • Halloween (Samhain)

  • Christmas (Yule/Saturnalia)

  • Easter (Ostara)

  • Valentine's Day (Lupercalia)

Is Christmas a pagan holiday?


Although Christmas is now a Christian holiday, it has roots in pagan traditions.


The holiday was originally celebrated in many places as the pagan festival the winter solstice. Over time, the pagan traditions were, like those of the Norse Yule and the Roman Saturnalia were adapted by Christians and became associated with the birth of Jesus.


Is Mother's day a pagan holiday?


No, Mother's Day is not a pagan holiday. It was created in the United States in the early 20th century as a way to honor mothers and motherhood.


What is pagan new year called?


The pagan new year is usually recognized as Samhain, and it is celebrated on October 31st. This holiday marks the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter, where the wheel of the year begins it's turn again.


Though, It should be noted many pagans see Yule as the holiday to mark the new year.


What are some pagan traditions?


There are many different pagan traditions, and they vary widely depending on the specific belief system. Some common pagan traditions include:

  • Celebrating the changing of the seasons

  • Honoring ancestors and other spiritual beings

  • Performing rituals and spells for healing, protection, and other purposes

  • Using divination tools such as tarot cards or runes to gain insight into the future.

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We're a pair of pagans, both captivated by the enchanting and bizarre. With one wise old crone and one eager novice, we dive into the mysteries of the universe, sharing our unique finds.

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