Samhain (31st October – 1st November) 

Samhain is the festival of the ancestors, marking the end of the old year and the beginning of the new. It is a time when the veil between the worlds is thinnest, allowing communication with spirits and honouring those who have passed. Bonfires are lit, and offerings of food and drink are left for the dead. Deities associated with Samhain include Morgan La Fey, Cailleach, and Anubis. The energy of Samhain is one of introspection, transformation, and releasing the past to prepare for renewal.

Yule (21st December) 

Yule is the Winter Solstice, the longest night of the year, celebrating the rebirth of the Sun. It is a time of hope, as the light begins to return, and the days grow longer. Traditionally, Yule logs are burned, homes are decorated with evergreens, and feasts are shared in honour of the returning Sun.  The energies of Yule centre around renewal, inner reflection, and welcoming new beginnings.

Imbolc (1st–2nd February) 

Imbolc is the festival of light and inspiration, associated with the return of life and the awakening of the land. It is dedicated to Brigid, the Goddess of fertility, healing, and poetry. Candles are lit to honour the growing power of the Sun, and purification rituals are performed to clear away the stagnant energies of winter. Imbolc carries the energy of renewal, hope, and creative inspiration, guiding individuals to set intentions for the coming months.

Ostara (20th–23rd March) 

Ostara is the Spring Equinox, celebrating balance and new beginnings as light and dark are equal. It marks the fertility of the land, the blossoming of flowers, and the return of animals. Eggs, hares, and flowers are symbols of Ostara, and rituals often involve planting seeds, blessing the land, and honouring deities such as Eostre, Cernunnos, and Gaia. The energy of Ostara encourages growth, balance, and embracing new opportunities.

Beltane (30th April–1st May) 

Beltane is the festival of fire and fertility, celebrating the union of the Divine Masculine and Feminine. It is a time of passion, abundance, and life force energy. Maypole dances, handfasting ceremonies, and bonfires are traditional celebrations, invoking the blessings of fertility and creativity. Deities connected to Beltane include the Green Man and Lady and the Welsh Goddess Rhiannon. The energy of Beltane is one of passion, vitality, and the full expression of life’s joy.

Litha (20th–23rd June) 

Litha is the Summer Solstice, the height of the Sun’s power, bringing abundance and illumination. It is a time of celebration, honouring the strength of the light and the power of the natural world. Bonfires are lit, herbs are gathered, offerings are made to solar deities such as Lugh, Aine, and Apollo. The energy of Litha is one of strength, manifestation, and the fulfilment of personal goals.

Lughnasadh (1st August) 

Lughnasadh is the first harvest festival, marking the beginning of the reaping season and the cycle of sacrifice. It is named after Lugh, the Celtic Sun God of skill and craftsmanship. Feasting, games, and rituals of gratitude are held in honour of the land’s bounty. The energy of Lughnasadh encourages gratitude, perseverance, and the sharing of abundance with others.

Mabon (20th–23rd September) 

Mabon is the Autumn Equinox, celebrating balance and thanksgiving for the final harvest. It is a time of reflection, gathering resources for the darker months and honouring the changing cycles of nature.  The energy of Mabon is about gratitude, preparation, and finding harmony within the shifts of life.

Each of these Sabbats offers an opportunity to align with the natural world, honour the cycles of life and connect with the divine forces guiding the seasons. Through ritual, meditation, and celebration, individuals can deepen their spiritual practice and embrace the wisdom of the Celtic traditions. You will find many Retreats (over few days of teaching and channelling from Alphedia) and workshops channelled at these powerful Sabbat times. You can enjoy them any time your soul is ready no matter the time of the year. Honouring the Sabbats throughout the year in what ever way you choose can help you stay grounded and more connected to the rhythms of the Earth and her cycles.