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Perhaps the best known of the Pagan sabbats, Yule resembles Christmas in many ways including gift giving, singing and certain symbols. Yule falls on the Winter Solstice and is a celebration of the longest night of the year. Adapted from the Roman celebration of Saturnalia, Yule marks the start of the long winter months and is a time to celebrate the end of the busy harvest and butchering seasons. Similar to Christmas, gift giving and feasting are important aspects of Yule celebrations.

A History of Yule

In Pagan myth Yule marks the journey of the Sun King to bring light into the world. The days following would gradually grow longer and lighter as the Sun King journeyed across the sky. This idea of bringing light into a dark world would emerge as theme in Christianity, where Jesus as the bringer of light. As such candlelight and fire plays an important theme in Yule celebrations.

Setting Intentions at Yule

The traditional holiday season can be hectic and stressful for families. Yule is a good time to set intentions that align with peace, love, harmony and increased happiness. Take time to celebrate Yule in simple ways such as a family meal, a walk in the woods or just sharing what you are thankful for with your family and friends.

Yule Symbols

Colors: Green, gold, silver, red

Foods: Cookies, caraway, dried fruits and nuts, pork dishes, eggnog, ginger tea, spiced cider and wassail.

Stones: Ruby, garnet, bloodstone, emerald, diamond

Herbs: Bayberry, evergreen, frankincense, holly, laurel, pine, sage

Flowers: Calendula, sunflowers, wild ginseng, wormwood

Deities: Ishtar, Horned God, Orsis, Loki, Persephone, Cerrunnos, Dionysus

How to Celebrate Yule

Caroling
Wassailing
Burn a yule log
Bonfire
Walk in the woods at night
Kiss under mistletoe
Exchange gifts with loved ones
Celebrate Kris Kringle (Germanic pagan god)
Bake cookies or other sweet treats with traditional flavorings like carraway, anise, dried fruits and nuts
Integrate some Slow Living Practices into your Yule Celebration