Imbolc is a festival of fire which takes place on the eve of Februrary 2, or if you live in the southern hemisphere August 2. Imbolc is also known as Candlemas, a time of reawakening that is often accompanied by a mass of candles, lighting the way to new creativity. Imbolc celebrates the end of darkness and the reaffirmation of growth. The Gaellic word "imbolc" means "in the belly", which signifies that although the light is weak, it is still waxing, and with it spring will arrive.
Yule is celebrated anywhere between December 19 - 23 in the Northern Hemisphere and June 19 - 23 in the Southern Hemisphere. Apart from the Celtic tradition, the Wheel of the Year begins at Yule, with the birth of the goddess’s son. In the Christian calendar, Yule is known as Christmas. The Sun is at its lowest point in the heavens. The birth of new promise and hope is celebrated at this time, because from this day onward the nights will again become shorter and the days will be longer.
Samhain (Halloween) Samhain is celebrated on October 31 in the Northern Hemisphere and May 1 in the Southern Hemisphere. Samhain a.k.a. All Hallows eve would have to be the most infamous of pagan holidays. Stories of sacrifices and wild orgies are what comes to mind when people talk about Witches involvement in this sacred holiday. Samhain is a day when we should honor our ancestors and loved ones that have passed away. Of course many people indulge in “trick or treating” commercialized as Halloween. Just because this holiday is about remembrance and is very important in a witch’s calendar, doesn’t mean you can’t have a little fun with it. Dress in costume (pointy hats, broomsticks) if you want and use traditional Halloween props like a jack o’ lantern just as long as you remain aware that is also a special time to respect the dead.
