What Yule Traditions Do You Celebrate?

Finding your spirit and reliving the myths of the Celtic age during the darkest time of the year.

Yule or the winter solstice is the longest and darkest night of the year. It marks the end of the “dead time” and brings new hope for the light. In ancient traditions, Yule was celebrated with a hearth in the home and the burning of the yule log.

Nowadays, Yule has taken a back seat to Christmas for many people. However, for those of us still celebrating the old ways, Yule is one of the greatest times of the year.

The veil begins to close but is still thin enough to connect with our ancestors and other spirits. We can also connect with the winter child who greets us with the hope that life is on the horizon.

It is a time of year that we can burn candles, drink cider and cocoa, and watch the snowfall. However, it is also a quiet and somber time where we can consider all that has happened to us over the past year.

Yule Log and Ancestors

Some of my favorite Yule traditions include the burning of the Yule log and connecting with my ancestors. One of the simplest ways you can do this is by visiting them at their gravesite or going where they liked to tread when they were here on Earth.

Another way is to place their pictures by the fireplace or candlelight and listen. You never know what you may hear and what messages they want to give you.

When you burn the yule log, try to burn it all night long. Why? This tradition is said to keep the evil spirits at bay - after all the veil is thin.

Mistletoe and Holly

Hanging mistletoe above your Christmas or Yule tree is a fun way to be reminded of the old Pagans who revered that mistletoe for its protective and healing properties. Holly is another revered plant known for its protection against evil. During dark times, protecting yourself is always essential.

Word of advice, however, is never to bring holly into the home. There is an ancient myth that goes; bringing holly into the home can bring ill luck going into the new year. Instead, place the holly by your doorstep to prevent negative energies (including those of your relatives) from coming in and spoiling the fun!

Candles

I want to mention candles. Like a fiery hearth, lighting candles can help you celebrate Yule. Welcoming into the light during the darker times is a Yule tradition - an old Yule tradition.

I suggest a black and white candle, along with a red candle. Black is the color of banishing negative forces. White is the color of peace and light. Red is the color of passion and love. Green and gold are also colors of the Yule season.

Spirits

The spirit I love to welcome in during this time is Brighid. She is the fiery goddess of the hearth. She symbolizes protection and divination. I will write an article about the spirits of winter.

But for now, know that Brighid is the ancient Pagan goddess of prophecy. You can dedicate a yule log to her in exchange for helping you divine what may be to come in the new year.

Finally, Yule is the season of knowing that darkness isn’t something to fear. Darkness is something to embrace. When we become less fearful of the unknown, we can go to places that change our minds and hearts for the better. Celebrate this time knowing that darkness can’t last without the light.

Blessed Yule Season!

- Hawthorn (Michelle)

P.S. What are some Yule traditions that you celebrate? Comment below, I’d love to hear them!