Yule
21 June
Winter solstice or Yule is the shortest day and longest night of the year. It signifies the return of the Sun's light and warmth, as well as the renewal of a fertile Earth. Pagans traditionally celebrate these aspects through rituals involving candles, bonfires, evergreen decorations, and feasting.
At this time, Yule logs made from hardwood tree roots are burned, with mallee roots, Tasmanian oaks, and eucalyptus trees being especially prized for this purpose in Australia. The Yule log is burned until nearly nothing remains, and the remaining piece is saved and used to light the next year's Yule fire, symbolising the continuity between the winter and summer solstices.
A Yule tree decorated with a pentagram at the top is placed in the Wiccan home. Gifts are exchanged, and many Witches stay awake the entire night to welcome the returning sun. This symbolises the Goddess giving birth to the God and then resting from the ordeal.
The winter solstice marks a time of reflection and renewal in the never-ending cycle of the seasons. Although the cold winter darkness looms, we find comfort knowing the sun will shine again. The Wiccan traditions of the Yule log, tree, and all-night vigil serve as symbols of hope, rebirth, and the coming return of light and fertility.