Winter Solstice

Yule is one of the oldest winter solstice festivals, with origins among the ancient Norse thousands of years ago.

The winter solstice (the first day of winter) is the longest night of the year. This holds significance for a few reasons. As we plunge into the darkness, we collectively enter the literal rebirth cycle of our earth and welcome the fresh light of the new year, signifying the coming of Spring. Experiencing the darkest night of the year is a bit like the dark night of the soul. It is a chance to hibernate, awash in the darkness. It is a chance to reflect, reevaluate, and let go of what has already died. It is a chance to dream of what you will plant and nourish in the coming light of the year.

There is great symbolism in the transition from darkness to light, through the Winter Solstice. The sun appears to stand still in the sky for three days - a symbol the ancients understood as the rebirth of the sun. There have been many customs celebrated to honor this rebirth - one being the death of the Holly King, who rules over the darker months, to the life of the Oak King, who ushers in the new season of light and warmth.

Event Details:

Please join us as we share a feast, a reflective discussion of the meaning of Winter, and the burning of a Yule log, where we will share our prayers and dreams for the coming year.

Location:

We will be celebrating Yule at Jillian's house and would be so grateful if you would bless us with your presence. Please bring a festive Yule dish to share.

What to bring:

Please bring a Yule specific dish to share. Foods that represent the Winter Solstice include dried fruits, clove, ginger, baked apples, cakes, ham, winter squash, oats, and figs.

*Please respect the time and energy it takes to host these events. Do not register for this event unless you are committed to attending. Thank you for your consideration.*

What to expect:

- We will share a time of food and laughter.

- We will have a short time to reflect on the history of solstice celebrations, as well as the meaning of Winter in our own lives.

- We will share a time to write notes of prayers and dreams to tie to our Yule log and then will burn it together as we share about our dreams for the new year.

- If we feel like it, we will share a drum circle after the fire.

*This is a substance-free event*

*This is an Atheopagan event. All faith backgrounds are welcome.*

Host or Publisher Goddess LLC