This month in 2012

December ~ Winter Solstice Traditions The Pagan celebration of Winter Solstice (also known as Yule) is one of the oldest winter celebrations in the world. It is a celebration of the shortest day and longest night of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, when the North Pole is at its furthest point away from the sun (the sun is at its southernmost point in the sky). Mistletoe and the mighty Oak The Druids (Celtic priests) would cut the mistletoe that grew on the oak tree and give it as a blessing. Oaks were seen as sacred and the winter fruit of the mistletoe (pictured right) was a symbol of life in the dark winter months. The Yule Log The Celts thought that the sun stood still for twelve days in the middle of winter and during this time a log (known as the Yule log) was lit to conquer the darkness, banish evil spirits and bring luck for the coming year. Yule logs are traditionally lit on the first day of the Solstice and are burned throughout the Solstice night for 12 hours as a symbol of hope and belief that the sun will return. ~ Project Britain - Folklore Calendar ~~~~~~ Click on an image below to access individual galleries. Left click on the larger view to return here. Your comments and votes are always welcome. Enjoy your visit!