Holy days

The Pagan year

The Pagan seasonal cycle is often called the Wheel of the Year. Almost all Pagans celebrate a cycle of eight festivals spaced throughout the year.

Imbolc

Imbolc, one of the cornerstones of the ancient Celtic calendar, marks the start of the farming season. Celebrations centre around fire.

Spring Equinox

Celebrating the renewed life of the Earth that comes with the Spring.

Beltane

On the cusp between spring and summer, Beltane is a fire festival that celebrates the fertility of the coming year.

Summer Solstice

At Midsummer, Pagans honour the incredible strength of the sun and the divine powers that create life.

Lughnasadh

Lughnasadh is traditionally a harvest festival and symbols connected with the reaping of corn predominate in its rites.

Autumn Equinox

As the activity of the summer months slows down towards winter, this is a time for Pagans to reflect on the past season.

Samhain

This festival, coming between autumn and winter, marks the Day of the Dead. For Pagans, it is a time for honouring departed spirits and reflecting on changes in their lives.

Winter Solstice

The Pagan celebration of Winter Solstice (also known as Yule) is one of the oldest winter celebrations in the world.