What is Yule & How to Celebrate?

What is Yule?

Yule is the ancient pagan celebration of the winter solstice. It is one of the oldest winter celebrations in the world. Originally a 12-day festival centred around the winter solstice, Yule has its roots in Scandinavian and Germanic traditions. Yule marks the darkest day of the year, but it is also a time when the sun begins to return, hence Yule is a time for both reflection and celebration. Some Yule symbols are now closely aligned with Christmas celebrations. For example, the origins of Christmas trees and wreaths can be found in pagan Yule practices. The tradition of burning a Yule log around the solstice goes back as far as medieval times and gatherings for the winter solstice even further back than that. Yule is one of the eight sabbats in the wiccan ‘Wheel of the Year’ celebrations. See below for our list of easy ways to celebrate Yule.

How to celebrate Yule

  • Decorate your home with evergreen foliage

  • Gather together with friends and family for a midwinter feast

  • Light candles on evening of the Winter solstice - the darkest day of the year

  • Burn a Yule Log

  • Make a winter wreath, using evergreens & natural materials

  • Give back to nature - feed birds and wildlife

  • Decorate a Yule Tree

  • Set intentions for the year ahead

  • Do a spot of Yuletide cleaning - cleanse, declutter & clean your home

  • Bake Gingerbread biscuits

  • Make a Yule Log cake

  • Drink mulled wine or cider

  • Make a straw Yule Goat decoration

Yule Gift Box

Our Yule Box can be enjoyed by anyone who wants to celebrate the changing of the seasons and the magic of the natural world, with a special focus on pagan / wiccan practices. Perfect as a self gift, or to give as a present to friends and family, our Yule Box includes handmade items such as an art print, a scented candle, decorations and more! Buy our Yule Box here. Limited stock, so order early.

Yule Digital Download

We also have a Yule Digital Download with 10+ Printable PDF Pages including Yule activity ideas and correspondences. Download today and print at home! Available here

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