CELEBRATION OF THE SEASONS

The ultimate goal of the Craft, (intertwined with the training and traditions to attain this), is to attune one's self to the Earth and the changing seasons. By gaining this attunement, enlightenment follows, a working relationship with the Earth is founded, a communion with the Elementals is formed, and knowing one's self opens the gateway to the knowledge within.

By being aware of the change in the seasons and all of the subtle ebbs and flows, a witch becomes one with the energies. This partnership and the knowledge of what this partnership means is what makes "magic" work. For what is magic other than energy that is focused on a specific goal?

The celebration of the Sabbats is essential to the Craft. The Wheel of the Year, as it is called, is the turning of the Wheel that keeps the flow steady and sure.

The Eight Sabbats (described briefly) are: 

Yule:	The Winter's Solstice. This is normally celebrated around December 21st or 22nd and is the birth of the Sun God.
Imbolc:	Also known as Candlemas and is normally celebrated around February 1st. We begin saying farewell to Winter and welcome the way for Spring and the Return of the Goddess.
Ostara:	Spring Equinox. We work to completely welcome the Goddess from her rest and open the door for Spring and new life. This is normally celebrated around March 21st or 22nd.
Beltane:	Fertility celebration and welcome to the fires of new life. This is normally celebrated around May 1st and is one of the most powerful Sabbats of the Craft.
Litha:	Summer's Solstice. This is normally celebrated around June 21st or 22nd and turns the wheel for the celebration of summer. The longest day of the year and the shortest night.
Lammas:	Celebration of Lugh/First Harvest. This is normally celebrated around mid August and is the Celtic celebration for the first harvest of the summer crop.
Mabon:	Autumnal Equinox. This is normally celebrated around September 21st or 22nd. This is the last harvest and our preparation for the imminent winter.
Samhain:	Year's End/Year's Beginning. This is when the veils between the worlds thin as the Wheel begins a new cycle. This is normally celebrated around the end of October/early November.