Yule/Winter Solstice

Yule signals the return of the Sun. After the Winter Solstice, the Sun is visible in the sky for a little more time every day. Yule is a time of celebration of the rebirth of the Sun; the Solstice being the shortest day and the longest night.

Date: It falls on or around December 21st. This year (2023), it is the 22nd.

Themes: Reflection, rebirth, darkness, meditation, peace, family, ancestors.

Colours: Red, green, gold, silver, white, blue

Herbs: Mistletoe, cinnamon, allspice, nutmeg, holly, peppermint, pine, cedar, ginger, cloves

Stones: Amethyst, smoky quartz, snowflake obsidian

Foods: Gingerbread, sugar cookies, cranberries, ham, deer, sweet potatoes, green vegetables, pomegranates, candy canes, hot chocolate, fruitcake, marzipan, honey bread, eggnog, oranges, chestnuts

Activities: Make your own Yule Log or cake, decorate a Yule tree, build a Yule altar, make ornaments to hang on your tree, make a wish pinecone, put candles in the windows, bake Solstice cakes, reflect on the past year, create a wreath.