Wiccan Sabats

Wiccans really know how to party.  They enjoy nature and that which nature provides for food and drink.  Most festivals are very happy, upbeat occasions with heavy emphasis on fertility and revelry.  They truly know how to "eat, drink and make merry", as the saying goes.  The following is a list of the 8 annual rituals.  You can see how they all have a basis in agriculture, since they all signal a significant point in the cycle of the year.

YULE,  the Winter Solstice: 

On or about December 22, Yule is the longest night of the year. After this day, the days get longer; thus the Winter Solstice is celebrated as the return of the sun, and of the gift of warmth it brings to Earth.

IMBOLC: 

On February 2, the earliest signs of Spring are seen now as the Earth's rebirth begins. As a time of the year associated with beginning growth, Imbolc is an initiatory period for many.

OSTARA, the Spring Equinox: 

On or about March 21, the first true day of Spring. The days and nights are now equal in length.  Shoots of new growth and swelling buds appear on the trees.  This time of year is traditionally celebrated with fertility festivals. Energy increases as the days become warmer.

BELTAINE, or Mayday:

The land is now ripe and fertile. This is a time of joyous reveling as the first fruits of Summer are gathered. Again, some fertility festivals are held.

LITHA, the Summer Solstice:

On or about June 21, the days of the first harvesting of herbs as the Earth now begins to share her bounty. This time of the longest days is celebrated as a fire festival. June is also the traditional month for handfastings (weddings).

LUGHNASADH: 

On August 1, the First Harvest. Plants are setting their seed already for the next year as the cycle of nature continues. The sun still burns brightly, but already the passing of the days begins to herald the coming of Autumn. A festival celebrating the first harvest, with seasonal foods, are held.

MABON , the Autumn Equinox:

On or about September 21, the Second or Continuing Harvest. Now, as at Ostara, the days and nights are equal once again. Gardens are in full bloom and heavy with nature's bounty. 

SAMHAIN, October 31-Nov 1:

The Last Harvest. This is the time of reflection, the time to honor the Ancients who have gone on before us and the time of divination. This is probably the most important of the Wiccan festivals as it is the time when the veil between the spirit world and material world is thinnest.