How to Celebrate Samhain: Rituals, Traditions and the Magic of Halloween, the Witches’ New Year

This Wiccan holiday marks the thinning of the veil, when divination, honoring the dead and embracing the darkness come together.

The air is cool, almost biting, as you walk through a darkened forest. The leaves, once ablaze in fiery autumn colors, have now turned brown and brittle, carpeting the forest floor with a soft, crackling layer. The moon, full and heavy in the sky, bathes the landscape in a silver glow, casting long, eerie shadows among the trees. Somewhere in the distance, you hear the low hoot of an owl and the rustling of creatures unseen.

It’s spooky Samhain — the Wiccan festival that follows Mabon, marking the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter. It’s a time when the veil between the living and the dead is at its thinnest, a liminal period when spirits walk among us and the mysteries of the afterlife feel closer than ever. For Wiccans, Samhain is the witches’ New Year, a night to honor ancestors, reflect on the cycle of life and death, and embrace the darkness that comes with the closing of the year.

Samhain (pronounced Sow-en) isn’t just a time of endings, but also of new beginnings — where the seeds of the future are planted in the fertile darkness. As the wheel of the year turns, Samhain invites you to look inward, to confront the shadows within and without, and to prepare for the quiet, introspective months ahead.

So whether you’re lighting candles to guide the spirits home, carving pumpkins to ward off malevolent forces, or simply sitting by a fire with a cup of mulled cider, this guide will walk you through the history, the rituals and the ways you can celebrate Samhain in a way that’s meaningful, magical and deeply connected to the turning of the seasons.

Samhain has profoundly influenced the history of Halloween. Many of the customs we associate with Halloween trace their origins back to the ancient rites of the Celtic holiday.

The Myth of Samhain

Long before Samhain became a part of Wiccan tradition, it was celebrated by the ancient Celts as the festival of the dead. According to legend, it was on Samhain night that the great hero, Cú Chulainn, faced his final battle. Wounded and weakened, he tied himself to a standing stone so he could die on his feet, sword in hand, defying death itself.

As Cú Chulainn’s life ebbed away, the Morrígan, the great Celtic goddess of war and fate, appeared before him in the form of a crow, her dark wings fluttering as she perched on his shoulder. It was said that the Morrígan would come to those who were destined to die, and her presence signaled the hero’s inevitable end. But even as his strength failed him, Cú Chulainn refused to fall, his spirit unbroken even in death.

Samhain, in this way, became a time to honor the dead and to remember the heroes who had passed on, their spirits crossing the thin veil to join the ancestors. 

It was also a night of divination, where the future could be glimpsed through the mists of the otherworld, and the Morrígan herself might appear to those brave enough to seek her out.

As the Celts gathered around their fires, they told stories of the old gods and heroes, lighting candles and making offerings to ensure that the spirits of their ancestors would find their way home. The fires burned bright through the night, keeping the darkness at bay and offering protection from the malevolent spirits that roamed the land.

Symbols and Correspondences of Samhain  

Samhain is rich with symbols that reflect the themes of death, rebirth and the thinning of the veil between worlds. From the glowing jack-o'-lantern to the sacred bonfire, these symbols are more than just decorations — they carry deep meaning, connecting us to the cycles of life, death and renewal.

Jack-o'-Lanterns: Guiding Spirits and Warding Off Evil  

The tradition of carving jack-o'-lanterns dates back to ancient Celtic practices of creating turnip lanterns to guide the spirits of the dead on Samhain night. 

The flickering light inside was meant to represent the souls of the departed, while the carved faces served to ward off malevolent spirits that might wander too close. 

As the custom crossed the Atlantic, pumpkins replaced turnips, and the jack-o’-lantern became a quintessential symbol of Halloween.

In your Samhain celebrations, consider carving a pumpkin with symbols that hold personal significance. Place it on your doorstep or windowsill as a beacon for the spirits of loved ones and as a protective charm against darker forces.

The Bonfire: A Beacon of Protection and Renewal  

Bonfires have long been a part of Samhain celebrations, serving as a powerful symbol of protection and purification. In ancient times, people would gather around these fires, tossing in offerings of food, herbs and other items to ensure a bountiful year to come. The bonfire’s light was believed to ward off evil spirits and guide the souls of the departed back to the otherworld.

If you’re able, gather around a fire on Samhain night — whether it’s a roaring outdoor bonfire or a simple candle lit indoors. Use this time to meditate on the cycles of life and death, and to release any fears or anxieties into the flames, allowing the fire’s transformative power to cleanse and renew your spirit.

Apples: The Fruit of the Otherworld

In Celtic mythology, apples were considered sacred, often associated with the otherworld and the land of the dead. It was believed that the fruit could grant access to the mysteries of the afterlife, and on Samhain, apples were used in divination rites to glimpse into the future.

To incorporate apples into your Samhain rituals, consider performing a simple divination by slicing an apple crosswise to reveal the hidden star within. Eat the apple mindfully, asking for insight or guidance, and let the seeds be a reminder of the potential for new beginnings even in the darkest times.

SkullS and Bones: Symbols of Mortality  

Skulls and bones are powerful symbols of Samhain, representing mortality and the thin line between the living and the dead. They remind us of the impermanence of life and the inevitability of death, urging us to honor those who have passed and to reflect on our own journeys.

Decorate your altar with small skulls or bones (real or symbolic) to connect with the energies of the season. These symbols can serve as a focal point for meditation, helping you to confront and accept the natural cycles of life and death.

A Samhain Ritual: Honoring the Dead and Welcoming the New Year

Samhain is a time for deep reflection, honoring those who have passed, and preparing for the new beginnings that lie ahead. This simple ritual is designed to help you connect with the energies of the season and the spirits of your ancestors.

What you’ll need

• A black candle (for protection and the dark half of the year)

• A white candle (for purification and the light to come)

• A photo or memento of a loved one who has passed

• A small bowl of water (symbolizing the veil between worlds)

• An offering (such as bread, wine or herbs)

• A journal and pen for reflection

1. Set the space.  

Begin by finding a quiet place where you won’t be disturbed. Cast a ritual circle if you want. 

Arrange your candles, photo or memento, and offering on a small table or altar. Light the black candle, focusing on the protection and guidance it brings as the dark half of the year begins. As you light the candle, say:  

“I light this flame to guide me through the darkness. May it protect me and illuminate the path ahead.”

2. Honor your ancestors. 

Hold the photo or memento of your loved one in your hands. Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths, visualizing the face or presence of this person. Speak to them as though they are with you, expressing gratitude for their influence in your life and asking for their guidance in the coming year. Place the photo or memento next to the black candle.

3. Reflect on the year. 

Take a moment to think about the past year — the lessons learned, the challenges faced and the growth achieved. Write down your reflections in your journal, allowing your thoughts to flow freely. This is also a time to acknowledge what you are ready to release as the year ends.

4. Light the white candle.  

Light the white candle, symbolizing the new light that will eventually return. As you do, say:  

“As the wheel turns, I welcome the light that will come after the darkness. I honor the past, embrace the present and look forward to the future.”

5. Make an offering. 

Pour a small amount of water into the bowl, symbolizing the thinning veil between the worlds. Take your offering and place it in front of the candles, saying:  

“I give thanks for the blessings of the past year and offer this gift in gratitude. May it nourish the spirits of those who have gone before and guide me through the year to come.”

6. Close the ritual.  

Spend a few moments in quiet reflection, feeling the connection between the past, present and future. When you’re ready, blow out the candles, starting with the black one and then the white. Thank the spirits and energies that have been present during your ritual. 

You may wish to leave the bowl of water and the offering on your altar overnight or dispose of them outside, returning them to the earth.

Other Ritual Activities for Samhain

Ancestral Altar 

Take a cue from the Day of the Dead: One of the most meaningful ways to celebrate Samhain is by creating an altar dedicated to your ancestors. This sacred space can be adorned with photos, mementos, candles, and offerings of food and drink. Light a candle for each ancestor you wish to honor, and spend time in quiet reflection, speaking to them as though they are present.

As you sit before the altar, say:

“On this night, as the veil grows thin, I honor the spirits of those who have come before me. I give thanks for their wisdom, their love, and their guidance. May they find peace and may their light continue to guide me.”

Silent Supper

A silent supper, or dumb supper, is a traditional Samhain ritual where a meal is prepared and eaten in complete silence to honor the dead. The table is set with an extra place for the spirits of loved ones who have passed, inviting them to join in the feast. The silence is maintained to show respect and to create a space for communication with the otherworld.

Prepare a meal with seasonal ingredients, such as root vegetables, apples and hearty grains. As you eat, reflect on the lives of those who have gone before you, and listen for any messages or insights that may come to you in the stillness.

Scrying and Divination  

Samhain is an ideal time for scrying, a form of divination that involves gazing into a reflective surface to receive visions or insights. Traditionally, a black mirror, a bowl of water, tarot cards or a crystal ball might be used for this purpose.

Apple Peel Divination: A Simple Samhain Rite

Apples, symbols of magic and the otherworld, lend themselves perfectly to a straightforward divination practice during Samhain. 

To begin, find a quiet space and hold a fresh apple while focusing on a question or intention. 

Slowly peel the apple in one continuous strip, keeping your mind centered on the guidance you seek. 

Once peeled, toss the strip over your left shoulder and observe the shape it forms on the ground. The peel may reveal a letter, symbol or shape that offers insight into your question. 

Finally, record your impressions and consider how this message might guide you in the coming months. The apple peel divination is a traditional, easy and meaningful way to connect with the energies of Samhain.

Feasting: A Harvest of Flavor

As the final harvest festival, Samhain is the perfect time to celebrate with a feast that honors the season’s bounty and the transition into the darker half of the year. Traditional Samhain foods are rich and hearty, and often infused with the warmth of spices to chase away the chill of autumn nights.

Root vegetables like potatoes, carrots and turnips take center stage, often roasted or simmered into comforting stews. Apples, ever the symbol of wisdom and connection to the otherworld, are used in everything from pies to ciders, adding a sweet, crisp note to the table. You might also enjoy hearty breads, pumpkin dishes, and anything spiced with cinnamon, cloves or nutmeg — all of which evoke the essence of the season.

For a truly magical touch, consider baking a special Samhain loaf or cake, embedding a small charm or token inside. As you share the cake with loved ones, the person who finds the charm may receive a special blessing or message for the year ahead. This tradition not only adds an element of fun to your feast but also connects you to the ancient customs of divination and celebration that have long been part of Samhain.

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying a quiet meal alone, let your Samhain feast be a time of reflection and gratitude, a celebration of both the harvest and the mysteries of the season.

Samhain Crafts and Activities

Samhain offers a wealth of creative opportunities to engage with the season’s energy and themes. Here are some activities that you can incorporate into your celebrations:

Creating Spirit Dolls

Crafting spirit dolls is a traditional Samhain activity that allows you to create a tangible representation of your ancestors or spirit guides. Using natural materials like twigs, corn husks or fabric scraps, fashion a small doll that symbolizes a loved one or spiritual protector. 

As you create your doll, focus on the qualities or energies you wish to honor or invite into your life. These spirit dolls can be placed on your altar or kept in a special place in your home as a way to stay connected to those who have passed or to receive guidance from the spirit world.

Bone Rattles

A bone rattle is a powerful tool for connecting with the spirit realm, and making your own can be a meaningful Samhain project. Collect small bones from ethically sourced materials (or substitute with sticks or shells) and attach them to a sturdy handle, such as a piece of driftwood or a carved stick. As you shake the rattle, the sound is said to call forth spirits and ancestors, making it a potent addition to your Samhain rituals or meditations.

Ancestor Story Stones

Gather a set of small, smooth stones and paint or draw symbols on them that represent stories, traits or memories of your ancestors. These could include simple images like a tree, a house or an object they were known for. 

Use these stones in a storytelling ritual, where you draw a stone at random and share or reflect on the story or memory it represents. This activity not only honors your ancestors but also keeps their stories alive and connected to your present life.

Herbal Sachets for Protection

As the veil between worlds thins, creating herbal sachets for protection is a practical and magical way to safeguard your space. Combine herbs traditionally associated with protection, such as rosemary, sage and juniper, and place them in small fabric pouches. You can hang these sachets by your door, carry them with you, or place them under your pillow to ward off negative energies and invite peace into your home.

These activities are not only fun and creative but also deeply connected to the themes of Samhain, offering ways to honor the past, protect the present and prepare for the future.

Samhain: Embracing the Shadows and Honoring the Past

As the wheel of the year turns, Samhain invites us to pause, reflect and connect with the mysteries of life, death and the unseen. It’s a time to honor our ancestors, embrace the darker aspects of our existence, and prepare for the introspective journey through the winter months.

Whether through ritual, feasting or creative activities, Samhain offers a space to engage with the deeper cycles of life and to find meaning in both the endings and the beginnings that this season represents. As you light your candles, prepare your offerings and set your intentions, remember that Samhain isn’t just about looking back at what has passed, but also about planting the seeds of what is yet to come.

May your Samhain be filled with the magic of the season, the warmth of remembered love and the quiet anticipation of the new year ahead. –Wally

How to Celebrate Mabon: Rituals, Traditions and the Magic of the Autumn Equinox

This Wiccan holiday marks the season of balance, where gratitude, reflection and magic come together as the leaves begin to fall.

You’re strolling through a forest, the air crisp and tinged with the scent of fallen leaves. The trees are ablaze in golds, reds and oranges, as if they’re throwing one last, fiery party before winter. You hear the crunch of leaves underfoot, a squirrel hustling to stash away its final acorns, and somewhere in the distance, the faintest echo of a harvest song that feels both ancient and familiar.

Welcome to Mabon — what Wiccans call the autumnal equinox — a celebration that straddles the line between the warmth of summer’s end and the encroaching cold of winter. It’s that magical time when day and night stand in perfect balance, a brief pause before darkness takes the lead. For Wiccans, Mabon marks the second harvest festival and a moment to give thanks for what’s been gathered — be it crops, wisdom or even a little sanity.

Mabon is the mirror image of the vernal equinox, the yin and yang of the wheel of the year, where light and dark shake hands before heading their separate ways.

So, whether you’re deep in the woods gathering herbs, arranging fruit in a cornucopia or just tossing your leftover summer produce into a pot of stew, Mabon invites you to pause and savor the season. This guide will take you through the history, the rituals and the ways you can make this equinox your own, whether you’re a seasoned witch or just someone who loves a good reason to cozy up with a warm apple cider.

The Myth of Mabon

Throughout the centuries, Mabon has been celebrated in one form or another across various cultures as people marked the turning of the seasons. 

The holiday takes its name from a figure in Welsh mythology: Mabon ap Modron, the "Great Son of the Mother.” He was taken from his mother’s arms when he was but three nights old. His mother’s cries of despair echoed through the land, for Mabon’s fate remained unknown, a mystery that confounded even the wisest of sages.

Years later, Culhwch, a noble warrior, set out on an epic quest to win the hand of Olwen, a maiden of unparalleled beauty. Yet, to win her, Culhwch faced impossible tasks, one of which required the hunting of the great boar, Twrch Trwyth. But to hunt this fearsome beast, Culhwch needed the aid of Mabon, the only man capable of holding the magical hounds necessary for the chase. However, Mabon was still lost to the world, and his whereabouts were shrouded in mystery.

Undeterred, Culhwch sought the help of King Arthur and his loyal knights. Together, they scoured the lands, but no trace of Mabon could be found. In their despair, they turned to the oldest and wisest of creatures in the world, who were thought to be the only ones who might know where Mabon was held.

They’re eventually led to the Salmon of Llyn Llyw, the oldest and wisest creature in all of Britain, who swam in the depths of the great river Severn. The Salmon, whose scales shimmered like the stars, revealed that he had heard the sorrowful cries of Mabon, imprisoned deep within the dark walls of Gloucester.

Guided by the Salmon, Culhwch and his companions found the fortress that held Mabon captive. The prison was a place of shadows, impenetrable and bleak. But with the help of their allies and the wisdom of the ancient creatures, they breached the fortress and freed Mabon from his chains.

Mabon emerged, a man of great strength and vitality, his spirit unbroken despite the years of captivity. Grateful for his rescue, he joined Culhwch and the knights in their quest. Together, they faced the formidable boar, and with Mabon’s help, they triumphed.

Autumn Equinox Around the World 

But long before Mabon’s Welsh tale found its place in Wiccan tradition, autumn equinox celebrations were already well underway. From ancient Greeks honoring Demeter during the Eleusinian Mysteries to Roman festivals for Ceres, the goddess of the harvest, this time of year has always been about the fruits of labor, balance and preparing for the leaner times ahead. Even the Norse had their own harvest festivals to thank the earth for its gifts.

Mabon, as a modern Wiccan celebration, borrows from these older traditions and weaves them into a tapestry of gratitude, balance and preparation. The myths and stories remind us that just as Mabon himself emerged from the shadows with wisdom, so too can we take stock of what we’ve gained over the year and let go of what no longer serves us. As the wheel turns, we’re reminded that in every season of darkness, there’s a seed of light waiting to grow.

Symbols and Correspondences of Mabon

Mabon is a feast for the senses, full of rich colors, earthy scents, and symbols that speak to the balance and abundance of the season. From the familiar apple to the ancient cornucopia, these symbols are more than just pretty decorations — they carry layers of meaning tied to gratitude, cycles and the gifts of the earth.

Cornucopia: The Horn of Plenty

The cornucopia, or horn of plenty, is probably one of the most iconic symbols of Mabon. Picture a horn-shaped basket overflowing with fruit, nuts and grains — a symbol of the abundance and prosperity of the autumn harvest.

Legend has it that this symbol dates back to Greek mythology, with a goat’s horn whose milk fed Zeus, the king of the gods, as a baby. 

As a harvest festival, Mabon is the perfect time to share your bounty with others. 

Apples: The Fruit of Wisdom

If there’s one fruit that screams autumn, it’s the apple. But beyond pie and cider, apples have long been symbols of wisdom, knowledge and even magic. 

In Wiccan lore, slicing an apple reveals a hidden pentacle at its core, linking it to protection and balance. Use apples in rituals to call upon clarity and insight — or just snack on one as you sip spiced wine by the fire. Bonus points if you go apple-picking; it’s practically a Mabon rite of passage.

Colors: Reds, Oranges, Golds and Browns

The color palette of Mabon is one of deep warmth — think of a sunset splashed across the sky, or the scarlet leaves of a maple tree in the fall.

Incorporate these colors into your altar, clothing and candle choices during rituals. These hues speak of both the light we’re leaving behind and the cozy warmth we’re embracing.

• Reds represent the fading energy of the summer sun.

• Oranges and golds echo the harvest’s bounty.

• Browns ground us in the earth’s stability.

Herbs and Plants: Sage, Rosemary and Myrrh

As the nights grow longer, herbs like sage and rosemary come into focus for their protective and cleansing properties. Sage is known for clearing out the old and making space for new energies, while rosemary boosts memory and helps us hold onto what’s truly valuable. Myrrh, often associated with ancient rites, can be burned as incense to deepen meditation and spiritual reflection. 

Decorating with oak leaves or crafting a wreath of autumn herbs is a great way to invite these energies into your home.

Crystals: Amber, Citrine and Tiger’s Eye

Amber, with its golden glow, is often associated with preserving the warmth and energy of the sun, making it a perfect stone for Mabon. Citrine is known as the merchant’s stone, attracting abundance and prosperity, while Tiger’s Eye provides grounding and balance, reflecting the essence of the equinox.

Whether you carry them in your pocket, place them on your altar or incorporate them into a ritual, these crystals remind us to hold onto the season’s light as the world grows darker.

Mabon’s symbols are invitations to connect more deeply with the earth and our own sense of equilibrium. By incorporating these elements into your celebrations, you’re embodying the essence of the equinox, balancing the joys of what’s been harvested with the peace of what’s yet to come.

Preparing Your Altar: A Balance of Light and Dark

Setting up your Mabon altar is like arranging a diorama of the season’s energy — a space where gratitude, balance and abundance all come together. Whether you have an entire table to dedicate or just a cozy corner, your altar can reflect the themes of the equinox in a way that’s personal, magical and, of course, a little bit witchy. Here’s how to create a Mabon altar that radiates the warm, golden glow of the season while inviting balance and reflection. 

1. Choose your space: indoors or outdoors?

Before diving into the decorations, decide where your altar will live. If you’re lucky enough to have access to a garden, balcony or patio, consider setting up outdoors — there’s nothing like feeling the crisp air and hearing the rustle of leaves during your ritual. Indoors, a windowsill or side table works just as well, especially when you can let natural light (or candlelight) play across your altar.

2. Find an altar cloth. 

Start with a cloth in the rich colors of Mabon — think deep burgundy, golden yellow, burnt orange or earthy brown. If you want to get really symbolic, you can use a cloth with two contrasting colors to represent the balance of light and dark, day and night. Or, opt for something with an autumnal pattern like leaves, vines or even apples.

3. Create a centerpiece. 

Every altar needs a focal point that draws the eye and sets the tone. For Mabon, the cornucopia is a classic choice, filled with seasonal fruits, nuts and grains. If you’re not up for crafting a full-on cornucopia, a simple bowl or basket overflowing with apples, pomegranates, grapes and acorns will do the trick. You could also place a large candle at the center, symbolizing the waning light of the year — yellow or gold for the sun’s energy, or deep red for the warmth of the hearth.

4. Balance your ritual components.

Since Mabon is all about balance, make sure your altar reflects this theme. Place candles or objects that represent light on one side and darker items on the other. You could use white and black candles, sun and moon figures, or contrasting crystals like citrine and smoky quartz. The idea is to create a visual representation of the equinox’s equal division of day and night.

5. Add some seasonal touches. 

Next, bring in the natural elements that celebrate the season’s harvest. Gather fallen leaves, acorns, pinecones, and small gourds to scatter across the altar. Fresh herbs like sage, rosemary and thyme add both aroma and energy, while a few sprigs of wheat or dried corn stalks nod to the agricultural roots of the festival. If you want to get crafty, a DIY wreath of autumn leaves or a bouquet of marigolds and chrysanthemums makes a stunning addition.

6. Infuse intentions with crystals and other symbols. 

Mabon is a great time to work with crystals like amber, tiger’s eye and carnelian, all of which carry the grounding, warming energies of the season. Place them around your centerpiece or in the corners of your altar to represent stability, abundance and personal growth. 

You might also include small symbols like pentacles, apples with the star revealed inside or a small cauldron to represent transformation.

7. Now for some personal touches: What matters to you?

Finally, make your altar truly yours by including items that hold personal significance. This could be a gratitude jar where you place notes of thanks for the blessings you’ve received, a photo of loved ones or a piece of art that embodies the spirit of Mabon. If you’re planning specific rituals or intentions for the season, keep those tools — like a journal, tarot deck or  runes — within easy reach.

Your Mabon altar will become a living space that embodies the season’s energy and helps you connect with the themes of harvest, balance and gratitude. As you build and work with your altar, let it evolve with the changing season and reflect your personal journey as we all shift from light to dark. Whether your space is grand or humble, the intention you set will fill it with the magic of Mabon.

A Mabon Ritual

Mabon is a time to reflect on the balance between light and dark and to express gratitude for the abundance in our lives. Whether you’re working in a sprawling backyard or in the quiet corner of your living room, this solo ritual is designed to help you connect with the energies of the equinox while honoring the harvest, both literal and metaphorical.

What you’ll need

• A small candle (preferably in a harvest color like orange, red or gold)

• A bowl or basket of seasonal items (apples, acorns, dried herbs, nuts, etc.)

• A piece of paper and a pen

• An offering (this could be a portion of your harvest items or a small libation of wine or cider)

• Any crystals or tools you work with (optional)

• A comfortable spot where you can sit and reflect

1. Set the space. 

Find a quiet place where you can be undisturbed. Cleanse the area with sage, rosemary, or simply by lighting your candle with intention. If you’re outdoors, let the wind and natural sounds be your “cleanser.” As you prepare, take a few deep breaths, centering yourself and letting go of any distractions.

2. Begin the ritual. 

Cast a ritual circle if you want. 

Light your candle and say:

“As the wheel turns, I stand at the balance of light and dark. I honor the harvest, the fruits of my labor and the gifts of the earth. I give thanks for the abundance that has filled my life, and I welcome the peace of the dark half of the year.”

Feel the warmth of the candlelight as a symbol of the sun’s last strong days before winter takes hold.

3. Reflect on the harvest. 

Take your basket of seasonal items and hold it in your hands. Close your eyes and think about the “harvests” in your own life: What have you accomplished, learned or gained over the past year? What challenges have you faced, and how have you grown from them? Let these thoughts flow freely, whether they’re about work, relationships, personal growth or even small daily victories.

As you reflect, select one item from your basket to represent each “harvest” or blessing you’re grateful for. Hold the item in your hands and focus on the gratitude it represents. If you feel moved to, speak your thanks aloud: 

“I give thanks for the lesson learned in [situation]. I honor the growth it brought me.”

Place each item back in the basket with intention, seeing it as a vessel holding your gratitude and your offerings to the earth.

4. Balance  light and dark. 

Now, on your piece of paper, draw a simple line down the center. On one side, write “Light” and on the other, “Dark.” 

Under “Light,” jot down the things you’re grateful for: the abundance, joy and lessons you’ve harvested.

Under “Dark,” write what you’re ready to release: the burdens, old habits or regrets you wish to leave behind as you enter the quieter, more introspective half of the year.

Hold the paper in your hands and meditate on the balance between these two sides. Know that both are necessary for growth, and that letting go makes space for new beginnings. When you’re ready, fold the paper and place it under your basket as a symbolic offering to the balance of the season.

5. Make your offering. 

Choose a portion of your harvest items, such as an apple, some dried herbs or a handful of nuts, and set them aside as an offering. If you’re outdoors, you can leave this offering in a place that feels significant — at the base of a tree, near a stream or in a garden. If you’re indoors, you can save the offering to place outside later or simply offer a libation of wine, cider or juice.

As you leave your offering, say:

“I give back to the earth what she has given to me. May the balance of light and dark bring peace and renewal.”

6. Close the ritual. 

Take a moment to feel the energy you’ve cultivated. Close your eyes and visualize the candle’s light merging with the coming darkness, creating a harmonious balance. When you’re ready, blow out the candle and say:

“The wheel turns, the harvest is gathered, and balance is restored. So it is, and so it shall be.”

Take a few deep breaths (try inhaling through your nose for four seconds, holding your breath for seven seconds, and then exhaling through your mouth for eight seconds). This will ground you back into your space. If you’d like, enjoy one of the seasonal items from your basket as a way to take in the energy of Mabon.

This ritual is simple yet powerful, allowing you to connect with the essence of Mabon in a way that’s personal and meaningful. Whether you keep it brief or let it evolve into a longer reflection, the key is to honor both the light and the dark, giving thanks for what you’ve received while gracefully letting go of what’s ready to pass.

Mabon Feasts: A Harvest of Flavor

What’s a harvest celebration without a good feast? Mabon is the perfect excuse to break out your coziest recipes and gather with friends — or just treat yourself! 

Traditional foods like apple pie, roasted root vegetables, hearty breads, and anything spiced with cinnamon or cloves take center stage. If you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own cider or mulled wine. Even a simple meal of seasonal vegetables can feel magical when paired with intention — each bite a reminder of the earth’s bounty. 

The key is to embrace abundance while also giving thanks. Consider sharing your feast with friends or preparing a small extra portion as an offering to the spirits of nature or your household deities.

Mabon Crafts and Activities

Mabon is a season rich with DIY opportunities. For the crafty at heart, try making a wreath with fallen leaves, acorns and dried flowers. 

You can also create a gratitude jar. Write down things you’re thankful for on slips of paper and add them to the jar throughout the season. Seeing the jar fill up can be an effective way to track your progress and, as the months grow darker, help you focus on the positive aspects of your life. 

For those who prefer a more meditative approach, take a nature walk with the intention of gathering small natural items that call to you: pinecones, colorful leaves or interesting stones. Use them to decorate your home or altar, creating a connection between the outdoors and your sacred space.

Another meaningful activity is journaling. Reflect on what you’re harvesting in your own life: lessons learned, challenges overcome, goals achieved. Mabon is about both celebration and preparation, so let your creative energy flow as you transition into the quieter months ahead.

These simple yet meaningful touches help make Mabon a time to embrace the fullness of the season while grounding yourself in gratitude and balance.

Mabon: Gathering the Season’s Blessings

As the wheel of the year turns and Mabon ushers in the deeper shadows of autumn, we’re reminded that life is a balance — a dance between light and dark, abundance and scarcity, celebration and introspection. 

Mabon is the perfect time to reflect on what you’ve gathered this year — and to consider what you’re ready to release. Whether you’re diving into a ritual or simply taking a moment to notice the things around you and appreciate the effort that went into making them, Mabon’s energy is about tuning into the balance within and around us.

With these elements woven together, you’re ready to fully embrace Mabon in a way that’s meaningful, magical and uniquely yours. 

Happy Mabon! May your harvest be abundant, your balance steady, and your heart full as the wheel turns toward the darker days ahead. –Wally

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Beltane: Get Fired Up for the Wiccan Fertility Festival

The history of Beltane, from bonfires to maypoles. Plus, how to perform a Wiccan Beltane ritual and cast a witch’s ladder love spell. 

Beltane might have started with the ancient peoples of Western Europe — but celebrations still take place nowadays.

Who knew that jumping over flames was the key to making babies?

The ancient Celts, that’s who. The practice was a staple of the holiday known as Beltane. 

Now a Wiccan holiday, Beltane is traditionally celebrated as a spring festival, usually on or around May 1 in the Northern Hemisphere. (You can imagine how it has influenced modern May Day celebrations.) It marks the midpoint between the spring equinox and the summer solstice, which means that it is a cross-quarter festival, falling halfway between two of the four major solar festivals of the year (the equinoxes and solstices). However, some people consider Beltane to be a summer festival, as it is often associated with the beginning of the summer season and the longer, warmer days that come with it.

“Participants would jump over fires or pass through them for purification and blessings — and to increase their chance of getting knocked up. ”

“The celebration of Beltane was linked to the ancient Celtic calendar, which divided the year into two halves, light and dark. Beltane was a time of transition between the two, marking the beginning of the light half of the year,” Peter Berresford Ellis writes in The Druids.

Queen Guinevere’s Maying by John Collier, 1900

While its exact origins are shrouded in mystery, we do know that Beltane has been celebrated in one form or another for thousands of years. It’s believed to have originated as a Celtic festival to celebrate fertility and growth, which is why people would dance around a giant phallic symbol (the maypole) and leap over bonfires. Apparently, this was all very conducive to fertility. Couples would join in the fun and leap together to cement their bond. 

This bonfire is too high to jump over. Many Wiccans and neopagans today prefer to jump over a candle.

From Fertility to Frivolity: The Flaming Hot History of Beltane

Bonfires are a big part of Beltane. 

Back in the day, people would light giant fires and lead their livestock through the flames to purify them from disease and ensure fertility for the coming year. (I don’t recommend trying that at home, folks.)

It wasn’t just about the animals, though. Bonfires were set ablaze for the community to celebrate the returning warmth and light of the sun. Participants would jump over the fires or pass through them for purification and blessings — and to increase their chance of getting knocked up. 

It’s not certain, but a man and woman might have come together sexually during the rite of Beltane in the past as way to symbolize the union of the Goddess and God.

Ritual sex might have been practiced at Beltane. 

In addition, people would maybe even indulge in a little bit of ritual hanky-panky (if you catch my drift). There’s evidence to suggest that ritual copulation may have been part of Beltane celebrations in pagan times. Some historical accounts describe Beltane as a time when couples would come together in a sacred union to symbolize the union of the Goddess and the God, or the masculine and feminine energies of the universe. 

Walpurgisnacht/Hexensabbat by Orlando Antonio, 1878

Beltane gets connected to Walpurgis Night.  

Beltane is sometimes celebrated on the same day as Walpurgis Night (Walpurgisnacht or Valborgsmässoafton), a pagan festival observed in parts of Northern Europe. The festival is named after Saint Walpurga, an 8th century Christian missionary who was believed to have fought against pagan customs and beliefs (boo, hiss). 

In Germanic folklore, Walpurgis Night was believed to be a time when witches and supernatural beings gathered on mountaintops to hold revels and celebrate the coming of spring. Bonfires were lit to ward off evil spirits, and people would dress in costumes or wear masks to avoid being recognized by the evil creatures. 

Around Beltane, pilgrims tie ribbons to trees when visiting this holy well at Cranfield in Northern Ireland.

On Beltane, holy wells or natural springs were visited. 

This was yet another way to celebrate the return of life and fertility to the land. Some of the customs that people performed at holy wells on Beltane were:

• Leaving offerings of flowers or small personal items, including tying ribbons to nearby branches

• Walking clockwise around the well while praying for good health

• Drinking or washing with the water, which was thought to have healing properties

• Collecting dew from nearby grass or flowers, believed to bring beauty and youthfulness

Hawthorns are connected to the fairy realm.

The hawthorn tree, a symbol of Beltane, are portals to the fairy realm. 

Hawthorn trees are a type of thorny shrub that have white flowers in the spring. In Celtic culture, hawthorns were considered sacred and connected to the fairy realm. They were often found near holy wells or on fairy hills, where they marked the entrance to the land of fey. 

At Beltane, people would decorate hawthorn trees with ribbons and flowers as a way of making wishes or honoring the fairies. However, hawthorns were also feared, as they could bring misfortune if harmed. There was a strong taboo against cutting down a hawthorn tree or bringing its flowers into the house. 

Some legends say that if you sit under a hawthorn tree on Beltane, you might see fairies — or even be snatched away by them. 

Beltane is the perfect time to embrace new beginnings and focus on the things you want to change.

Modern-Day Wiccan Beltane Practices: Transformation Time

Beltane is also a time to embrace new beginnings, to take a long, hard look at your life and ask, “What do I want to achieve? What do I want to change?” And then you can dance around the bonfire and hope that the pagan gods give you a little nudge in the right direction.

“Beltane is a time to celebrate the life force within us and around us. It’s a time to honor the wildness and vitality of nature, and to tap into that energy to bring about positive change in our lives,” writes Phyllis Curott in Book of Shadows. 

Here are some ways for modern-day Wiccans to celebrate Beltane:

Less explicit than ritualized coupling, maypoles are sometimes viewed as phallic, while the ribbons represent fertility. As they twine together, it’s a mingling of masculine and feminine energies.

Create a maypole. 

You can decorate your maypole with ribbons or other symbols of the season, and dance around it with friends or family.

Cast a love spell. 

Beltane is a time when the energies of love and fertility are said to be at their strongest. Many Wiccans choose to perform love spells during this time, whether to attract a new partner or to strengthen an existing relationship. I imagine it’s also a good time to work some magic to try to get pregnant.

Perform a garden blessing. 

At Beltane, the Earth is coming back to life, and many Wiccans choose to bless their gardens or outdoor spaces at this time. You can create a simple ritual by lighting a candle and incense and reciting a blessing for the plants and creatures that call your garden home.

Welcome in warmer days, manifest love or pregnancy and work on your personal growth during a Wiccan Beltane ritual.

A Beltane Ritual

A Wiccan Beltane ritual is a way to honor the sacred union of the Goddess and the God, celebrate the fertility of nature, and express your personal goals and desires. There are many ways to perform a Beltane ritual, but here’s one example. What I love about Wicca is that you can always adapt any practices to your preferences and circumstances. 

Find a tree branch to place on your altar. 

Add ribbons, flowers, candles, incense (rose, violet or mugwort) and any other items that represent Beltane to you on your altar. You will also need a cup of a ritual beverage (such as wine or water), some bread or cake for an offering, and any spell components you want to use.

Take a ritual bath and dress yourself for Beltane. 

Baths aren’t necessary, but it’s a good way to purify yourself and get into the zone. As for your ritual outfit, bonus points for flowers in your hair and a wreath or garland around your neck. Floral patterns are always a good idea at Beltane. 

Light the candles and incense and ground yourself. 

Cast a circle starting from the south (the direction of fire). 

Chant:

By the powers of the Sky Father
The burst of wind, the shower of rain
The bolt of lightning, the clap of thunder
By the powers of the Earth Mother
The strong mountain, the fertile soil 
The rushing river, the fragrant wildflowers
May this circle be cast 
A place between the worlds
On this Beltane Sabbat
Joining the powers above
And the powers below
So mote it be.

Invoke the Goddess and God. 

Do this in whatever way feels right to you. You can use statues, candles or pictures to represent them on your altar. You can also recite a poem or prayer dedicated to them. For example:

Blessed be the Lady of Spring
Who brings life and joy to all things. 
Blessed be the Lord of Fire 
Who sparks passion and desire. 

Express your gratitude for all that you have received. 

Think about how you have grown physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually in this season. Thank the deities for their gifts and guidance.

State your intentions for what you want to manifest in your life. 

What areas of your life need more growth, creativity or love? Write them down on ribbons. Tie the ribbons around your tree branch while saying what you want to attract into your life.

Make a witch’s ladder to bring love into your life. 

Braid three ribbons (pink, red and white). Weave in objects that symbolize love, such as rose petals, heart-shaped charms and rose quartz crystals. 

As you do, chant:

Love come near, love come fast
Love be strong, love be lasting
Love be kind, love be true 
Love be mine, I welcome you.

Hang the witch’s ladder somewhere you can see it often.

Celebrate by eating and drinking your offerings. 

Thank the Goddess and God for sharing their energy with you.

Close the circle. 

Do this in the reverse order from how you invoked them.

Say: 

The circle is open but unbroken. 
May peace and love remain within. 
Merry meet
Merry part
And merry meet again.

St. George’s Kermis With the Dance Around the Maypole by Pieter Brueghel the Younger, 1627

As if longer, warmer days weren’t enough to celebrate, Beltane’s also got pole dancing, leaping over flames, tempting fairies, casting love spells and maybe even a little outdoor sex. It’s the ultimate spring fling. –Wally

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Where the Heck Did the Easter Bunny Come From?

Hopping through the history of the Easter Bunny, from pagan rituals to modern-day celebrations. Along the way, we’ll make some egg-citing discoveries about his birth as a fertility symbol and the origin of dyed eggs and Easter baskets.

Who knew the Easter Bunny evolved from the animal companion of a pagan goddess?

I once sponsored a child in India. His name was Papu Magi, and I regularly wrote him letters, sharing U.S. customs. When Easter rolled around, I explained how a giant human-sized bunny sneaks into our homes at night and leaves baskets filled with candy and colored eggs.

It wasn’t until I had written it out that I realized how bizarre some of our holiday traditions truly are. This got me thinking: How did we come up with the Easter Bunny?

“It makes you wonder if most Christians realize the holiday dedicated to the resurrection of their savior is actually named for a pagan goddess.”

Young women dance around a phallic maypole to increase their fertility — another pagan spring tradition.

A Pagan Origin: How the Easter Bunny and Dyed Eggs Became Symbols of Spring Celebrations

The origins of the Easter Bunny, as well as dyed eggs, can be traced back to ancient pagan rituals that celebrated the arrival of spring, including Ostara. Still practiced as a Wiccan holiday, Ostara is a celebration of the spring equinox. It’s named after the Germanic goddess Eostre, who some scholars deduce was associated with the dawn, fertility and new beginnings. (It makes you wonder if most Christians realize the holiday dedicated to the resurrection of their savior is actually named for a pagan deity).

Caveat: Hard evidence about Eostre is lacking, and the goddess remains shrouded in mystery. Much of what’s reported on her is conjecture.

Her first mention comes from a famous monk, the Venerable Bede, in 731 CE, who wrote that the Anglo-Saxons called April Eosturmonath, or Eostre Month, in honor a pagan goddess worshiped at that time.

Easter gets its name from Eostre, a pagan goddess of the spring.

These rites of spring were full of festive merrymaking, including dancing around maypoles, drinking mead and worshiping rabbits.

Yup, that’s right: Bunnies were a key figure in these celebrations. In pagan traditions, the rabbit was seen as a symbol of fertility and new life — no real surprise, given their well-deserved reputation for rapid reproduction.

During these springtime celebrations, people would decorate eggs, believing them to have the power to bring new life and prosperity to those who ate them. Using natural dyes made from flowers and other plants, they created eggs in a variety of hues. And, as crazy as it might sound, rabbits were said to be responsible for laying colored eggs.

Do Jesus and the Easter Bunny belong in the same holiday?

Hopping Into Easter: The Christian Origins of the Easter Bunny and Its Symbolism of Resurrection

The Easter Bunny may have its roots in pagan traditions, but it also had a significant place in Christian beliefs. The early Christians in Europe adopted many pagan customs and blended them with their own religious practices, which is how the Easter Bunny eventually found its way into the Christian tradition.

Much as with Christmas, some Christians bemoan the commercialization of the Easter holiday.

I’m not sure that many Christians today connect the commercial aspects of Easter with the religious ones (there’s a parallel to Santa and Christmas), but back in the day, early Christians associated the rabbit, and all of its spring rebirth symbolism, with Jesus’ resurrection.

It seems that Karen Swallow Prior, a professor of Christianity and culture at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, agrees. “There’s nothing wrong with dressing up in pastels, hiding eggs or consuming large amounts of chocolate,” she wrote in an op-ed in The Washington Post. “But if the fluffy white bunny takes precedence over the crucified and resurrected Lord, we’ve missed the point.”

Easter baskets came about from a pagan tradition to carry offerings to the goddess of spring.

The History of Easter Baskets: From Pagan Offerings to Sweet Treats

Easter baskets are a staple of the holiday, but how did they become a part of the Easter tradition? It turns out that the origin of the Easter basket is also closely tied to the pagan celebrations of spring.

In pagan traditions, baskets were used to carry offerings to the goddess of spring, including eggs, thought to increase fertility. Over time, the baskets became a symbol of the bounty of spring and were filled with all sorts of goodies, like flowers, fruit and vegetables.

Well, no wonder the Easter Bunny decided to switch to baskets!

As the Easter basket evolved, so did its contents. Today, they’re most often filled with candy (including a chocolate rabbit, which kids will disturbingly bite its ears off of) and other treats, filled by the Easter Bunny himself during a nocturnal visit — again, another connection to Santa Claus. 

It’s hard to tell exactly when the Easter Bunny became adult-sized and anthropomorphic, but it seems like it might have happened around the 1950s.

Hare Today, Easter Bunny Tomorrow: Tracing the Evolution of the Beloved Easter Mascot

The Easter Bunny has been a beloved symbol of the holiday for centuries, but have you ever wondered how it evolved into the oversized, anthropomorphic creature we know today? 

He didn’t start out that way. The hare, a smaller relative of the rabbit, was revered by ancient cultures for its speed, agility and ability to reproduce, and was often associated with the moon and the goddess of fertility. A study from 2020 draws a direct connection between Eostre and her association with the hare.

Bunnies and colored eggs have long been symbols of spring, representing new life.

As the hare became associated with pagan spring celebrations, it eventually evolved into the Easter Bunny we know today. This transformation was likely influenced by the German tradition of the Osterhase, a hare who laid eggs for children on Easter morning.

Jacob Grimm, one of the famous Brothers Grimm who collected oral folklore throughout Germany, said in 1835 that the Easter hare was associated with Eostre, or Ostara, as she would have been called in ancient German.

At some point, the Easter Bunny grew in size and children were told he visits their homes at night (much like Santa) to leave them candy-filled Easter baskets.

Vintage cards from the late 1800s to early 1900s show a lot of rabbits, but it seems like it wasn’t until the 1950s or so that the Easter Bunny became more and more human-like. Perhaps families or malls started having someone dress up like the Easter Bunny for photo opportunities. And despite the fact that the Easter Bunny became bipedal and reached 6 feet or so (not counting the ears), most kids believe he can’t actually talk. 

Then again, it might have come down to marketing as a gimmick to help sell candy. “The Easter Bunny was created out of whole cloth by the confectionary industry,” claims David Emery, who writes for the fact-check site Snopes.

In another connection to Christmas, it has become a tradition to terrorize children by making them sit on the Easter Bunny’s lap for a photo.

Today, the Easter Bunny is a staple of the holiday, sometimes depicted wearing clothes — most often a vest and bowtie — and carrying baskets of eggs and treats.

To quote the M&M’s commercial, a fave of mine as a kid in the ’80s: “Thanks, Easter Bunny! Bawk! Bawk!” –Wally

Day of the Dead Ofrendas 2022

The Día de los Muertos ofrendas at the National Museum of Mexican Art focused on victims of COVID as well as gun violence, including the students and teachers killed in Uvalde.

Día de los Inocentes (Holy Innocents Day) by Claudia Álvarez, 2010. The sculpture represents the story in the New Testament where King Herod orders the massacre of all children under the age of 2 in an attempt to kill the baby Jesus.

The Mexican tradition of honoring loved ones with an ofrenda is something every family should adopt. These homemade altars are typically adorned with marigolds, photos, and items the deceased person would appreciate, including their favorite foods and beverages (empanadas and a margarita on mine, por favor). But even if you don’t create one at home, you can see artistic interpretations if you’re in Chicago.

Sometime around mid-October, Duke and I head to the Pilsen neighborhood to see the Day of the Dead ofrendas at the National Museum of Mexican Art. 

The original concept of the exhibit was to honor people in the USA who had been murdered. 

“In the last decade, we have been overwhelmed with the amount of mass shootings on an annual basis that there have been far too many for this exhibition,” reads the sign at the start of the exhibit, proclaiming, “Enough is enough!”

This year, the 36th Day of the Dead installation, covers not only senseless gun violence — including a moving memorial to the victims of the Uvalde school massacre — but Mexican actors who passed away and those lost to COVID and suicide.

Ofrenda to artisans who died of COVID

A photo of one of the artists memorialized in the ofrenda, Tiburcio Soteno Fernandez, with the tools of his trade and his iconic mermaid alebrije.

An ofrenda to Mexican cinema by the Puerto Rican Antonio Martorell

La muerte allá donde la vida no vale nada (Death, Where Life Has No Worth) by Alejandro Cortés, Dolores Gómez Navarro and Jorje Negrete. Note the upside-down ofrenda, pointing to Mictlan, the underworld of the ancient Mesoamerican peoples.

An ofrenda to the Latinx victims of the Uvalde, Texas shooting at Robb Elementary School. It was created by students at Bernard Moos Elementary School in Chicago.

Ofrenda a los Arrancados (Ofrenda to the Uprooted) by Carlos Flores. He used “bandit signs” to pay tribute to the working-class people of color who disproportionally lost their lives to COVID.

This ofrenda, created by the Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art, pays homage to weavers of the war-torn country.

Ofrenda to Nieves Orozco Field, an indigenous dancer who modeled for Diego Rivera

Molds used to make sugar skulls for Day of the Dead

Skeletons go hand in hand with Day of the Dead, as do sugar skulls.

Año de los Muertos (Year of the Dead) by Eric Romero, 2020

A Tree of Life with Mexican rites and rituals by Israel Soteno, 2007

If you’re in Chicago in the fall, you should definitely stop into the National Museum of Mexican Art (it’s free!) to see their ofrendas. ¡Feliz Día de los Muertos! –Wally

No Fooling: The History of April Fool’s Day and Poisson d’Avril

Learn the origin of April Fool’s pranks — and check out these bizarre vintage April Fool’s Day cards.

I’m not making this up: No one’s 100% sure how April Fool’s Day started, but it probably began when the New Year moved dates

The flowers begin to bud, robins appear, and a few gorgeously warm days start to sneak their way in. Springtime in Chicago is wonderful — though Duke and I will never forget that early April trip we took to Switzerland, when they were harvesting the spaghetti from the trees. Our timing was perfect; one more week and the limp noodles hanging from the branches would no longer be al dente.

Coincidentally, Easter falls on April 1 this year, as it did in 1957, when the BBC aired a three-minute segment showing people plucking strands of spaghetti from trees. Some viewers even called the BBC, wanting to know where they could purchase their very own spaghetti tree. Of course, it was just an elaborate prank — the first televised April Fool’s Day hoax.

Because spaghetti doesn’t grow on trees, silly.

The Amusingly Mysterious Origins of April Fool’s Day

This isn’t a joke: No one’s completely sure where and when April Fool’s Day started, but they’ve got some pretty good ideas.

A favorite theory is that it has to do with the switch from the Julian calendar, which was introduced by Julius Caesar, to the Gregorian calendar, named for Pope Gregory XIII. The decision was made in 1563 at the Council of Trent. That meant the New Year shifted from the end of March to January 1.

“A poisson d’avril symbolized an easily caught fish and, by extension, a gullible person.”

Some years later, in 1582, the French made the calendar switch. Those who didn’t get the memo or refused to play by the new rules were poked fun at and had paper fish (poisson d’avril, or April fish) sneakily placed on their backs. A poisson d’avril symbolized an easily caught fish and, by extension, a gullible person.

It’s also thought that the ancient Greco-Roman festival known as Hilaria (the Day of Joy) is a precursor to April Fool’s Day. This pagan celebration began on March 25, shortly after the Vernal Equinox, to honor Cybele, Mother of the Gods, and the resurrection of her castrated lover (and in some tellings, her son!), Attis.

The festivities conclude on April 1, accompanied by feasts, games, masquerades and practical jokes — hence the association to April Fool’s Day.

Even the Indian holiday Holi, which takes place around this time of year, involves much mischief-making. Associated with the Hindu demoness, Holika, people celebrate the triumph of good over evil by throwing brightly colored powder on each other.

During the 18th century, April Fool’s Day caught on in Britain. The Scottish celebrated a two-day event that started with “hunting the gowk” (a word for the cuckoo, which represents a fool), during which people are sent on wild goose chases. This was followed by Tailie Day, where the butts of jokes had fake tails or Kick Me signs pinned to their backsides.

Have a laugh at these hilarious (and bizarre) vintage April Fool’s and poisson d’avril cards. –Wally

Vintage New Year’s Greetings

Pierrot clowns, dwarves, pigs and cherubs helped ring in New Years past.

May the New Year come crashing in…in the most adorable way

The new year is a time to let go of our bad habits and make some sort of effort to improve ourselves. It’s a time of optimism, when the new year spreads out before us as a blank slate. Any unpleasantness from the past year can be left behind.

So it’s not surprising that people used to send New Year’s greetings that were filled with symbols of good luck and promise. On these vintage cards, you’ll see kids enjoying bottles of champagne (that effervescent boozy beverage is still the tipple of choice on New Year’s Eve).

“For some reason, Germans viewed pigs as signs of prosperity, so you can see porkers cavorting all over these old-time cards.”

There are also quite a few depictions of bearded humanoids. The cards with dwarves were typically created for Scandinavians, particularly the Swedish. These magical diminutive creatures are symbols of luck. Indeed, you can see them holding bags of coins.

Other European countries incorporated their magical creatures (elves, gnomes and the like) into their New Year’s cards.

Another character making an appearance on vintage New Year’s cards is the clown with poofy balls on his costume known as Pierrot. While clowns are often sources of mirth (even though plenty of people think they’re creepy as hell), Pierrot is a sad clown, desperately in love with a woman named Columbine, who breaks his heart and takes up with the dapper Harlequin. I’m not sure why they became associated with the holiday, but it’s a depressing way to kick off the new year.

Good luck symbols are found all over these cards, including horseshoes, mushrooms and four-leaf clovers, which have migrated from New Year’s iconography to St. Patrick’s Day.

For some reason, Germans viewed pigs as signs of prosperity, so you can see porkers cavorting all over these old-time cards.

And of course there are the most popular New Year’s characters: “The symbols for the New Year are Father Time, hoary with age, being replaced by the newborn child,” writes Pamela E. Apkarian-Russell in her book Postmarked Yesteryear: Art of the Holiday Card. “It is the retelling of the King who dies only to be replaced by a younger and stronger ruler. It is the story of the Phoenix shedding its beautiful feathers and then bursting into flames only to be reborn from the ashes on his self-induced pyre. It is senility and decay replaced by virility.”

Take a spin through these sometimes strange but often sweet vintage New Year’s cards, most of which come from the early 1900s. May your New Year be filled with mushrooms, pigs and small bearded men. –Wally

Christmas Around the World

Learn strange Christmas traditions from other countries.

Why are these people in blackface? It’s just one of the quirky Dutch Christmas traditions!

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, as the song goes. But in many parts of the world, it’s one of the strangest times of the year as well.

Americans have their share of kooky Christmas traditions, including the belief that a misfit reindeer with a glowing red nose named Rudolph flies through the sky, helping pull a fat man’s sleigh. Not to mention that said fat man somehow fits all the presents for every kid onto this sleigh and makes it around the world, slipping down chimneys, all in a single night.
But that’s nothing compared to some of the holiday traditions in other parts of the world.

“People in the Netherlands dress as Black Peter, a Moor, by putting on blackface. ”

For example, Christmas takes on a strangely scatalogical bent in Catalonia, a region of Spain. People place the figurine of a guy in the act of deficating in their nativity scenes as well as beat a log until it poops out treats for kids.

And in Austria and other parts of Europe, if you’re a naughty child, a devil named Krampus will kidnap you, beat you savagely with a stick and drag you to Hell.

Here are some of the more bizarre ways to celebrate the holidays in other parts of the world.

The Dutch version of Santa Claus has a helper named Zwarte Piet, or Black Peter

Go in blackface as Santa’s helper in the Netherlands.

Sinterklaas, as Santa Claus is known to the Dutch people, travels with his servant. But instead of diminutive elves, Sinterklaas is accompanied by Zwarte Piet, or Black Peter. Today people dress as Black Peter, a Moor, by putting on blackface. Not very PC — it’s amazing this tradition still exists. It wouldn’t in the United States, I’ll tell ya that.

Someone’s been naughty and needs to get stuffed into a sack and sent off to Spain!

It’s these fellows who keep tabs on who’s been naughty and who’s been nice. The good kids get presents, while the bad ones are shoved into a sack and taken off to Spain for a year of reform school.

Spiderweb decorations are common in Ukraine and Poland

Decorate the tree with spiderweb ornaments in Ukraine and Poland.

Spiderweb ornaments might sound more Halloween than Christmas, but there’s a story behind them. A poor Ukrainian widow lived with her children in a hut. The kids saw a majestic evergreen outside and wanted it to be their Christmas tree. Trouble was, they didn’t have any ornaments and couldn’t afford them.

So the woman cried herself to sleep that night. The hut’s spiders heard her sobs and decorated the tree in intricate webs overnight. In the morning, the sunrise caught the webs and made them glisten like metal. And everyone lived happily ever after, as they tend to do in these fairy tales.

In Poland, they also decorate Christmas trees with spiderwebs, but there’s a different tale behind this tradition. They believe a spider wove a blanket for baby Jesus. I’m sure it wasn’t warm and was annoyingly sticky, but I suppose they appreciated the sentiment.  

If a witch can’t find a broom in your house, Norwegians think she’ll leave you alone

Hide brooms from the witches in Norway.

Apparently witches and evil spirits like to come out to play on Christmas Eve. So Norwegians, to keep them at bay, hide their brooms, which we all know is a witch’s favorite means of travel. To thwart the witches and evil spirits, men will also fire three shots from their rifles into the air.

These nuns in Venezuela were off to celebrate Christmas mass on roller skates

Roller skate to church in Venezuela.

Amid the explosions of firecrackers, entire Venezuelan families in Caracas don roller skates and head off to Catholic mass. As tradition has it, children go to bed with a piece of string tied around their toe with the other end dangling out the window. As the skaters roll past, they give the string a tug, and children know that it’s time to put their own skates on. It’s such a popular tradition that the government took to closing entire streets to traffic so families could skate together in safety. This has gotta be the only time church feels like a disco club. All that’s missing is the mirror ball.

Grab your horse skull! It’s time to go wassailing in Wales!

Carol (and beg for booze) with a dead horse in Wales.

Perhaps you’ve heard the song that begins, “Here we come a-wassailing.” This is the Welsh version of caroling. Wassail is an old England word for “cheers” and can also refer to the boozy beverages the carolers are begging for: ale or mulled wine.

The old Mari Lwyd just ain’t what she used to be

The tradition, known as Mari Lwyd, translates to the Gray Mare, involves people going from house to house, singing and challenging the families inside to a battle of rhyming insults until they get a boozy beverage. What makes this creepy is that one person dresses up like a horse, donning a white sheet topped with an actual horse skull adorned with ears and eyes.

Take me to church

Bring a rooster to mass in Bolivia.

Bolivians celebrate Misa del Gallo (Mass of the Rooster), the midnight service on Christmas Eve, by bringing along a rooster. It must get quite boisterous. But what’s with all the cocks? It’s to honor the creature that is believed to be the first to have announced the birth of baby Jesus.

Dark-haired men, come on in! Blonde and red-haired women, stay the heck away!

Hope for a dark-haired man to visit you on Christmas in Estonia and Ireland.

Your first Christmas visitor (the first-footer) can determine if your household will have a good year or not — at least that’s what the Estonians believe. If you’re a woman, blonde or red-haired, just stay home, though, please. It’s really only dark-haired gents who bring good luck.

Ireland has the same tradition, though they light a candle and, at the last stroke of midnight, throw open their front doors to welcome in the New Year. Women will beat the door with a loaf of bread, while hoping for a dark-haired gentleman to darken their doorway.

People in Finland buy small tin horseshoes to melt on New Year’s Eve as part of a fortune-telling ritual

Melt tin and predict the future in Finland.

You might need a book of symbols and their meanings for this tradition. On New Year’s Eve, Finns purchase small tin horseshoes to melt and ladles. The molten tin is dropped  into a bucket of snow or ice-cold water. Once it hardens, they hold the blob up to the light to see what shape its shadow casts. If it looks like a hill, for example, there will be obstacles ahead. If it looks like a coin, you’ll be coming into some money.

Pesky Greek goblins called the kallikantzari take a break from trying to cut down the World Tree to cause mischief on the 12 days of Christmas

Kallikantzari like to scare humans — and poop in their food

Watch out for goblins in Greece.

According to Greek legend, the hobgoblins called kallikantzari come up from their underground homes on Christmas Day to play tricks on humans until Ephiphany, January 6. They’re particularly fond of sneaking down the chimney like Santa to hide in your home and jump out and scare you. The kallikantzari also rearrange the furniture and, shudder, take dumps in any open containers of food they find.

Grab a colander — it’s one of the best ways to get rid of these Greek goblins

If you want to avoid goblin crap on your cookies, burn logs or old shoes, or hang sausages or sweetmeats in the chimney. In addition, many Greeks put a colander on their doorsteps because the goblins will be compelled to count the holes. They don’t make much headway, though, according to A Scary Little Christmas, because the dim-witted creatures can only count to two.

They’re burning Mickey Mouse?! What did he ever do to hurt anyone?

Burn effigies in Ecuador.

In their own version of Guy Fawkes Day, Ecuadorians celebrate La Quema de los Años Viejos, the Burning of the Old Years. They make life-size dolls that resemble someone they dislike — maybe a local politician or the ever-popular Osama bin Laden. (I’m going to guess that Trump is a new fave.) People write notes explaining why the dolls should be burned and what changes they’d like to see in the coming year.

The effigies are proudly displayed on balconies or in windows until New Year's Eve, when they’re burned in a bonfire in the street. People jump over the fires for good luck.

Don’t be late on the winter solstice — you’ll be the Thomas Donkey and will end up the butt of jokes all day

Try not to become a donkey in Germany.

Don’t be an ass! In Germany, the Winter Solstice is also known as St. Thomas Day. It’s not a good day to be tardy. In parts of the Sauerland region, if you sleep in or get to work late, you’re given a cardboard donkey. called the Thomas Donkey and you’ll be the butt of jokes all day.

At least you’re rewarded at the end of the day with Thomasplitzchen, iced currant buns.

“The Greek goblins known as the kallikantzari like to take dumps in any open containers of food they find.”

Put on your skates and grab your cock before hitting midnight mass! Maybe you can incorporate some of these traditions into your Yuletide celebrations! –Wally

The Strange History of Valentine’s Day

From Lupercalia, where young men whipped eager women in the streets of ancient Rome, to St. Valentine’s secret weddings.

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Valentine's Day wasn't always about cupids and hearts — or even love.

Valentine’s Day is much more than just conversation hearts, boxes of chocolates, flowers and cards. There are some downright outlandish origins to this holiday.

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After the flagellation ceremony, men would draw women’s names from an urn — and that would be their sexual partner for the year.

Valentine’s Day dates back to a couple of Roman festivals.

The Romans celebrated two ritual festivals that formed the foundation for the holiday we know as Valentine’s Day. Februalia was a purification rite, which occurred on February 14 and gave the month of February its name. It was later combined with Lupercalia, which took place on February 15.

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Valentine’s Day as we know it began with an unusual Roman fertility rite.

“The crazed men, nude save for a goatskin loincloth, would take the hides of slain animals cut into strips and flagellate the women of the village in hopes of bestowing fertility.”

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This someecard points out just how strange Lupercalia was.

Lupercalia involved some bizarre practices, including beating women with animal pelts.

For this affair, young Roman men would congregate in the Lupercal, the sacred cave in the mountains where Romulus and Remus, the twins who suckled the she-wolf Lupa, were supposedly reared. Romulus would later found Rome and sacrifice Remus, but that’s another story.

The Luperci, the Brotherhood of the Wolf, would sacrifice a dog for purity and a goat for fertility.

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Ancient Romans believed being whipped by blood-soaked animal skins would help you get knocked up.

The crazed men, nude save for a goatskin loincloth, would take the hides of the slain animals that had been cut into strips and flagellate the women of the village in hopes of bestowing fertility.

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Saint Valentine has become the patron saint of love.

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Valentine was also the patron saint of epileptics.

Saint Valentine performed secret marriages when the institution was outlawed.

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In this painting by David Teniers III, Valentine receives a rosary from the Virgin Mary.

During the 3rd century CE, Roman Emperor Claudius II, wanting to increase the size and strength of his military empire, saw marriage as an obstacle. He believed that men were unwilling to fight due to their strong attachment to their wives and families. In an effort to circumvent this, he forbade all future marriages and engagements.

Whether Valentine was a bishop or priest has been lost to history, but he began performing clandestine ceremonies. He was soon discovered and imprisoned for his betrayal.

His legend is associated with having sent a note to his jailer’s daughter on the eve of his execution, signed, “From Your Valentine.” No historical evidence exists to back the authenticity of this story, though.

Valentine was beheaded, died a martyr and in death was elevated to the patron saint of love.

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The skull of Saint Valentine resides in the Basilica of Santa Maria in Cosmedin in Rome, Italy.

Pope Gelasius I used an ingenious sleight of hand, merging the pagan Lupercalia with the feast of Saint Valentine into a single holiday celebrated on February 14.

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The Cadbury boys found a way to extract a delicious byproduct of cocoa — what we know know and love as chocolate.

Cadbury created the first chocolate candies — and the first heart-shaped box of chocolates.

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One of the first heart-shaped box of chocolates

In 1824, John Cadbury, an English proprietor and founder of the Cadbury candy empire, opened a tea and coffee shop in Bournville, Birmingham, England. His shop also sold drinking chocolate, which he prepared using a mortar and pestle. This was a luxury item even among the upper class. The resulting beverage was coarse and grainy but popular.

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A vintage ad for Cadbury chocolate

Cadbury’s sons Richard and George visited the Van Houten factory in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, which specialized in the manufacture of cocoa powder. The brothers integrated this method into their manufacturing facility. The process allowed them to extract pure cocoa butter from pressing cocoa beans and adding sugar, reducing its bitter taste. Cadbury used this byproduct to produce several varieties of “eating chocolates.”

The retail division of the business was passed on to Richard in 1861, who recognized a great marketing opportunity and revolutionized sales by packaging Cadbury chocolates in the world’s first heart-shaped box for Valentine’s Day. The box could be kept and used to store mementos after the chocolates had been eaten.

Victorians began the tradition of sending valentines — some of which were downright cruel.

Do you remember making a mailbox to hold your cards and exchanging valentines with your classmates in elementary school, or perhaps receiving a pink or red carnation in high school? I did accrue a fair amount of cards through my formative years, though I do remember wishing I would get a carnation from a secret admirer.

Valentines pre-date Hallmark and were the preferred token to celebrate romantic love by the prudish 19th century Victorians in England. The first mass-market cards were introduced then, and the penny post made it possible to send them easily and inexpensively.

Plus, you could send notes anonymously, something the Victorians prized. This allowed them not only to exchange serious or humorous cards but downright mean-spirited ones as well, aptly called vinegar valentines.

“Senders would use the anonymity of the card to comment on the inappropriate behavior of a couple or the distasteful political views of a feminist friend,” Slate writes. “Women seemed to be the targets of many of the surviving examples, but balding men, pretentious artists and poets, and smelly fat guys made appearances as well.”

So the next time you send a valentine to a loved one, think about how whipped women, a beheaded saint and mean, anonymous cards are all part of this holiday. –Duke

How St. Nicholas Became Santa Claus

The surprising origins of Jolly Old St. Nick include a tie to prostitution, kids chopped into pieces, a devil named Krampus and a racist tradition around his helper Zwarte Pieter, or Black Peter.

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Our beloved Santa Claus started out as a bishop from Asia Minor named Nikolaos

Growing up, I can vividly remember nearly peeing my pants when I was 6 years old. It was early Christmas morning and I was afraid that if I left my room I would startle Santa and he wouldn't leave me any gifts. The willpower of a child is strong, but the pull of a tree with gifts beneath it stronger.

Fast forward to the sad rite of passage in learning that this being you believed in was a lie. Maybe you discovered your parents’ hiding place for gifts (my dad’s office) before they put them under the tree, or perhaps a friend told you.

“A butcher welcomed three children into his shop, slayed them and unceremoniously tossed them into a tub of brine to cure, with the intent to sell their flesh as ham.”

What most of us don’t know is that the inspiration for Santa Claus came from a real man whose historic generosity would become a legacy for the ages.

11 Little-Known Facts About St. Nick

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A children’s book about Sinterklaas, the bishop who became Santa Claus

1. He didn’t live at the North Pole.

Far from his home and workshop at the top of the world, in the south of present-day Turkey, lived a 4th century bishop whose full name was Nikolaos of Myra, a city now known as Demre. An ancient Byzantine church dedicated to St. Nicholas and containing his tomb still stands in Demre. Legend holds that it was built on the foundation of a Lycian Temple of Apollo.

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St. Nicholas came into money at a young age, and was always very generous with it

2. Saint Nicholas was born into a wealthy family — and had a penchant for charity.

Born a rich man’s son, Nikolaos donated his inheritance to the poor by giving them gifts, which he’d toss through open windows. Details changed as the story was retold with later iterations of him having tossed them down chimneys — the vehicle for Santa Claus to enter homes.

3. The tradition of putting out stockings was to protect young maidens from being sold into sex-slavery.

Many stories are told of his generosity, such as the tale of the father and his three daughters. To save the maidens from being sold into prostitution for want of dowries, Nikolaos tossed a bag full of gold into the man’s house. It landed in one of the stockings the eldest daughter had hung up to dry. Now she could be married and was spared from selling her body to survive. The other two daughters quickly hung up stockings for Nikolaos to fill with gold, so that they, too, could be married.

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Note the bags of gold, which saved three young women from a life of prostitution, in this depiction of a young, hot St. Nick

(As an interesting aside, the three golden globes that have come to symbolize a pawn shop are attributed to these three purses of gold.)

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Yeah, it’s kind of creepy that Saint Nicholas comes while kids are sleeping — but, hey, they get some toys out of it

4. Stockings shifted to shoes after Nicholas’ death.

The Feast Day for Saint Nicholas is celebrated annually on December 6, the anniversary of his death. This led to the custom of children hanging stockings or, later, placing their shoes out with carrots and hay for the saint’s horse, hoping that Saint Nicholas would fill them with fruit, candy and other small gifts.

5. Early iconography depicts him as a white-haired bishop atop a horse.

Known as Sinterklaas in the Netherlands, he is a stately and resolute man with long white hair and a full beard. He wears a lengthy red cape over a traditional white bishop’s alb, or tunic, holds a long ceremonial shepherd’s staff with a fancy curled top and rides a majestic white horse.

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Saint Nicholas resurrected three kids who had been chopped into pieces by a butcher and left in a salted tub to be passed off as cured ham

6. A not-so-pretty ditty tells of the murder of children and Saint Nicholas’ role in their resurrection.

A 16th century French song titled “Le Légende de Saint Nicholas” recounts the unfortunate and gruesome fate of three children.

The song, inspired by a miracle performed by Saint Nicholas tells of a butcher, who during a time of famine, welcomed three children into his shop, slayed them and unceremoniously tossed them into a tub of brine to cure, with the intent to sell their flesh as ham. Saint Nicholas, visiting the region to care for the hungry seven years later, not only saw through the butcher’s horrific crime but also miraculously resurrected the three boys.

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If you’ve been good, St. Nicholas will bring you gifts. If you’ve been naughty, you’re screwed

7. He hangs out with a devil, so be good for goodness’ sake!

Saint Nicholas was occasionally portrayed in medieval iconography taming a chained devil, who would later become the cloven-hoofed half-goat, half-demon Krampus. Children who have behaved get gifts from Saint Nicholas. Those who have not suffer a terrible fate: They get beaten with a birch switch by Krampus and are packed away in his bag to be taken to Hell.

8. Saint Nicholas’ helper wasn’t an elf — it was a slave.

In Holland, Sinterklaas doesn’t have elves helping him deliver gifts. He has the arguably racist companion Zwarte Pieter (Black Peter).

To this day, parade participants don blackface, red lips, nappy wigs and colorful period attire.

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Saint Nicholas’ helper is Black Peter, a controversial character that inspires people in the Netherlands to actually think it’s OK to wear blackface around the holidays. Illustration from a book by Rie Cramer

By Dutch tradition, Zwarte Piet was the servant of Sinterklaas — most likely a “blackamoor,” the name given to Africans who were captured and sold into slavery. The Dutch had the preeminent slave trade in Europe, and one of their roles was acquiring and transporting slaves to the Americas. Slave trade was abolished in the Netherlands in 1863, and while some locals perceive wearing blackface and dressing up like Black Peter as an innocuous tradition, others view the practice as a distasteful connection to the past.

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Eventually Saint Nicholas morphed into Santa Claus

9. He morphed into Santa Claus in the U.S.

The Reformation attempted to erase the image of St. Nicholas, without success. The tradition was brought to New Amsterdam, the original name for New York, established at the southern tip of Manhattan island, via Dutch settlers as the beloved and saintly bishop Sinterklaas. After years of mispronunciation, the name evolved into Santa Claus.

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St. Nick lost much of his bishop’s attire and began wearing red cloaks before he got his telltale suit

10. Washington Irving played a part in our conception of Santa as well.

In 1809, author Washington Irving’s satire History of New York From the Beginning of the World to the End of the Dutch Dynasty, he introduced the “Knickerbocker,” a New Yorker who could trace his ancestry to the original Dutch settlers. It was also a reference to the style of pants the settlers wore.

In its pages, Irving described Santa as a jolly Dutchman who smoked a long-stemmed clay pipe and wore baggy breeches and a broad-brimmed hat. The familiar phrase “laying his finger beside his nose” first appeared in this story.

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Naughty Santa! I guess people started leaving out milk and cookies so he wouldn’t drink their Cokes and eat their leftovers, as seen in this vintage ad

11. Things really do go better with Coke.

In 1822, Clement C. Moore wrote a whimsical poem for his children, “A Visit From St. Nicholas,” which was published the following year and is more commonly known by its opening line “’Twas the Night Before Christmas.”

Coca-Cola commissioned artist Haddon Sundblom to create an image of a wholesome, realistic Santa Claus, which was inspired by Moore’s poem. His popular image of a pleasantly plump Santa debuted in 1931 and is the one that endures, setting the standard for renditions that followed. –Duke