The winter solstice usually falls on December 21st or 22nd in the Northern Hemisphere and on June 20th or 21st in the Southern Hemisphere. However, it’s important to note that these dates may vary slightly depending on the year and location. The solstice occurs when the tilt of the Earth’s axis is farthest away from the sun, resulting in the shortest day and longest night.

The winter solstice is a powerful time for us to honour the darkness, embrace the stillness, and welcome the return of the light.

Pagan Traditions:

Yule Log: One of the most well-known traditions is the burning of the Yule log. This ancient practice involves selecting a large log, often from an oak tree, and burning it in the hearth or bonfire. The log represents the rebirth of the sun and is believed to bring good luck and protection to the household.

Winter Greenery: Many pagans decorate their homes with evergreen branches, holly, mistletoe, and other winter greenery during the solstice. These plants symbolise life, fertility, and the promise of spring amidst the cold winter months.

A WITCH’S way to celebrate the winter solstice

Embrace the darkness

The winter solstice is a time when darkness is at its peak. It is important to embrace the shadow aspects of ourselves and the world around us. This is a time for reflection and releasing what no longer serves us. We can engage in practices such as meditation, journaling, or divination to connect with our inner selves and gain clarity for the year ahead.

Creating a Winter Solstice Altar:

Setting up a winter solstice altar is a beautiful way to honour the season and create. Decorate your altar with symbols of the winter season, such as evergreen branches, pinecones, crystals, and candles.

Celebrating with a winter solstice feast.

No winter solstice celebration is complete without a festive feast. You can infuse your meals with intention and magic. Incorporate seasonal ingredients, such as root vegetables, spices, and herbs, into your dishes. Before eating, bless your food, expressing gratitude for the abundance in our lives and infusing it with positive energy. The Witch’s Feast: A Kitchen Grimoire by Melissa Madara has some brilliant recipe ideas. See more witchy cookbooks in the witchy recommendations section below.

Winter Solstice Hedge Witch Spell

Ingredients:

A white candle

Evergreen branches or pine cones

A small bowl of water

A piece of paper and a pen

Instructions:

1. Find a quiet space where you can perform your spell. Light the white candle, representing the return of light and warmth.

2. Take a moment to ground yourself. Close your eyes, take deep breaths, and visualise yourself surrounded by a warm and comforting light.

3. Take the evergreen branches or pine cones and hold them in your hands. Feel their energy and connection to the earth. These represent the continuity of life and the promise of renewal.

4. Write down on the piece of paper any negative or stagnant energies, thoughts, or emotions that you wish to release. Be specific and honest with yourself. Once you have written them down, fold the paper and hold it in your hands.

5. Place the folded paper in a small bowl of water to cleanse and purify. As you do this, visualise the negative energies being washed away.

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