Celebrating the Wheel of the Year: Yule

Yule is a Sabbat on the Wiccan Wheel of the Year. It is typically celebrated from December 20th-23rd, although the exact dates vary depending on your tradition. Yule honors the rebirth of the solar god and the beginning of the new solar year. At this time, Pagans reflect on the past year and welcome in the upcoming one.

One of the ways that pagans celebrate Yule is by decorating an altar with items that symbolize the season. Common decorations include a yule log, holly, pinecones, and poinsettias. Some Pagans like to make or buy a special Yule wreath to hang on their door. Sparkling lights and candles illuminate the darkness and anticipate the return of the Sun. Feasts and baubles remind us of midwinters of yore, when freezing weather kept everyone at home and the long nights were passed with indoor amusements.

One of the most popular traditions associated with Yule is the burning of the Yule log. The Yule log is traditionally a large piece of wood that is placed in the fireplace and burned throughout the night. Pagans believe that the Yule log helps to bring good luck and prosperity in the new year. Burning the Yule log is also a way to celebrate the Sun God, who is believed to be reborn at the Winter Solstice.

To enjoy a Yule log at home, you will need a fireplace or fire pit. Choose a log that is big enough to burn for several hours. (Traditional choices are oak, holly, and ash.) The log should be dry and free of knots, as these can cause the fire to smoke. Once you have your log, decorate it with evergreen branches, holly, and mistletoe. You can also add candles, pinecones, and other seasonal decorations. When you're ready to celebrate, light the log and allow it to burn until it is reduced to ashes. As the log burns, take time to reflect on the Winter Solstice and what it means to you. Enjoy the warmth of the fire and let the light fill you with hope for the coming year.

Another way to celebrate Yule is by spending time with loved ones. Yule is all about sharing your blessings with those closest to you. Some Yule traditions include making crafts together, decorating a tree, eating traditional holiday foods, or exchanging gifts.

If that sounds a lot like Christmas, you’re right! Many popular Christmas activities can trace their roots back to pre-Christian British and Germanic Yuletide celebrations. Modern Witches often combine Pagan traditions (like burning the Yule log) with traditions learned from Christian family (like nativity scenes and Christmas songs)--and that’s perfectly fine! One of the great things about Paganism is that it is very individual. Keep alive the traditions that are fun and fulfilling, and ditch those that aren’t meaningful to you or that stress you out. However you decide to spend your time, make sure to take some time for reflection on the events of the past year and setting your intentions for the coming one.

Yule is a special time of year for Wiccans and Pagans. This Sabbat marks the rebirth of the Solar God and the beginning of a new Solar year. Celebrating Yule involves decorating an altar with symbols of the season, spending time with loved ones, and giving thanks. By taking some time to celebrate Yule, you can connect with your Pagan community and get started on a new magical year!