Five Tips for Finding and Joining a Coven

Are you drawn to the witch's path, but don't want to walk it alone? Joining a friendly group of witchy people can offer support, friendship, and knowledge. In addition, practicing with others can amplify your own energy and help you learn new skills faster. Here are some tips on how to find a coven that's right for you.

1. Search Yourself First

The first step is to familiarize yourself with the different types of covens that exist, and decide what you are looking for. Do you want a group that meets only for major holidays, or more often? Are you interested in formal study or mentorship, or looking for purely social gatherings? Maybe you’re excited about the idea of hosting a big public Samhain circle with your coven sisters and posing in matching cloaks! Or perhaps a small and private group is more your style. Once you know what kind of witches you want to practice with, you can start your search.

2. Cast Your Web on the Web

A good place to start your search is online. There are many Facebook groups and subreddit threads dedicated to connecting witches from all over the world. You can also try searching Google for "Wiccan covens near me" or "witchcraft meetups in (your city)." Chances are, there are more witches living near you than you realize!

Many groups and covens have websites these days, so take a look and see if their values align with yours. If they don't, move on to the next one on your list! You'll find the perfect fit eventually. And if there aren't any suitable groups in your area, there's always the option of starting your own coven. Social networks have made it easier than ever to find your tribe—all it takes is a little courage, patience, and some ambitious energy.

3. Get Local

Another great way to find a coven is by reaching out to local spiritual stores in your area. Many of these stores have bulletin boards where community members can post announcements or flyers for events. This is also a great way to get involved in the local witching community and keep abreast of what's happening nearby. No witch shops in town? Check out bookstores and coffee shops for full moon gatherings, drum circles, metaphysical fairs, and the like.

Once you've found a few potential covens or groups that pique your curiosity, reach out and introduce yourself. Be ready to answer some basic questions, like how long you've been studying, your favorite deities and/or books, and what type of practice you're most interested in. If it seems like a good fit for both of you, members of the group may invite you to attend one of their meetings or events.

The first or second meeting is usually when people decide whether or not a particular group is right for them. So keep an open mind, and don't feel like you have to commit right away. (High-pressure recruiting tactics are rare in the witching world, and they're almost always bad news.) If you don't feel interested in a particular coven, that's okay! Just thank the leader(s) for their time and move on to another one of your options. The important thing is that you find a group of magical people who make you feel safe, accepted, and inspired.

4. Venture Out to Festivals

Pagan festivals are large gatherings of pagans, Wiccans, shamans, and other earth-based practitioners. These festivals usually have workshops, vendors selling spell supplies, and performances by local musicians and storytellers. Attending a festival is a great way to connect with other witchy folk in your area and learn about different styles of witchcraft practice. So set your intuition goggles to “seek,” and have a look around!

Often, covens that are accepting new students will set up on info booths to share information about their offerings. Or a random conversation will lead you to a promising resource or a new acquaintance. Who knows, you may find your perfect coven connection at one of these festivals.

5. Enjoy the Journey

There are many benefits to joining a coven, especially if you're just starting out on your witchcraft journey. However, finding the perfect coven or group can take time. Being solitary doesn’t make you any less of a witch, so don't rush into anything. Happy searching, and may the Gods guide you on your path!