While various other minor holidays might be celebrated intermittently, the eight major holidays are represented on the wheel.
These eight major celebrations mark the most common time for a seasonal celebration.
Midwinter is also of astrological importance as its the shortest day of the year and the longest night.
Rachel Baran
Some of the sacred plants for Yule include evergreen, holly, and ivy.
Spells to cast during Yule include those involving peace, harmony, love, and increasing happiness.
Imbolc, sometimes called Brigids Day, is the holiday celebrating the promise of Spring.
Typically falling between either February 1st or 2nd, Imbolc is a celebration of pure joy.
Symbols for Imbolc are white flowers, Brigid Crosses, plows, and candle wheels.
Imbolc can be celebrated in a variety of different ways.
Imbolc is also a time for feasting and gathering together to reflect, laugh, and share.
Ostara or the Vernal/Spring Equinox falls between March 19th-22nd and marks the official arrival of spring.
Celebrating spring means celebrating the new life thats abundant, as well as the longer and warmer days.
Herbs associated with this time are florals like jasmine or rose.
Things are very feminine, bright, and joyous when celebrating this time of year.
Beltane is the feast of the fire and various Earth energies are at their strongest during this time.
As Beltane is the feast of fire, fire is a hugely represented symbol for the holiday.
Light and life are all around us, and the Sun God is at his strongest.
Blessings and joy are abundant during this time.
Because Solstice is all about the sun, celebrations are based around the longer days and its immense power.
It is about celebrating the circle of life and all that we have.
Lughnasadh is associated with all things fall and homey.
Think apples, grains, rich colors like red and gold, corn, the hearth etc.
Celebrating Lughnasadh is all about giving thanks and being grateful.
Feasts with covens or other witches are typical during this time of year.
Think all things warm, homey, cozy, and filled with comfort.
Magick during the autumnal equinox is geared towards prosperity, protection, gathering, and transformation.
Focus with spellwork should be towards balance and bringing forth harmony.
Samhain or Hallows or All Hallows Eve is possibly the biggest celebration in The Wheel of the Year.
Symbols for Samhain include rebirth through death, black cats, gourds, candles, and apples.
