midwinter vigil

Yule is a twelve-day festival beginning December 20th - Mother’s Night, when the celebration of Yule officially starts.

This is the day known as Mōdraniht in Old English, and Mother’s Night in modern - we honor and offer thanks to our female ancestors, those who watch over our families and help us in times of need.

Edgewater, New Jersey, 20 December 2023

The winter solstice is often seen as the pivot on which the year rotates, the shortest day followed by the longest night after which the days grow longer again. The solstice is a pause at the darkest part of the year. The power of incubation and Gaia’s darkness are gratefully honored at this festival as the Sun returns.

Yuletide 2021

Yule is the pagan - ancient, ageless, and new - holiday that celebrates the return of longer days. Many cultures celebrate Yule - from ancient Germanic peoples to Celtic Druids. This turning of the wheel of the year also has traditions that may seem familiar for those who celebrate Christmas today. 

Yuletide display - AdobeStock / emmi

Wishing everyone a purposeful and fulfilling winter solstice. Life's challenges right now for all our global population has put us through so much loss on so many levels.

Winter Solstice sunrise over NYC - Getty Image

Ancient teachings from our ancestors - in messages on old artifacts, cave dwellings, and petroglyphs - remind us of the importance of holding the light, especially in these dark times.