Yule is the time of year when the darkness takes over and the days are shortest.  It is at the time of the Winter Solstice (Dec. 21), typically celebrated over the course of days, and is associated with the Christian holiday of Christmas. 

Much like Christmas, gift-giving is prevalent and the celebration of the rebirth (or birth) of the god.

Yule also comes with candles, a Yule log, carols, red, green and white colors and special attention to the Holly King. The Holly King is the representative of the god during the dark parts of the year, whereas the Oak King is the representative of the light parts of the year.  The two are facets of the same deity, yet are in perpetual conflict throughout the year. The Holly King, many times, resembles Santa Claus.

This year, Northern Spirits Coven celebrated this glorious holiday on Saturday, Dec. 22.  As part of their contribution to our community, the Coven ran a Toys-for-Tots drive associated with the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge  No. 40. 

Food, drink and merriment were parts of the celebration in addition to gift-giving, singing pagan carols, dancing, and a raffle. 

The night came complete with the celebratory circle practiced at every Witches’ Sabbat, and included the legendary sword fight between the Holly King and the Oak King. 

During the conflict, the Oak King vanquished the Holly King as the struggle between the forces of light and darkness temporarily ends with the advent of longer days after the Solstice.  Northern Spirits extends their appreciation and blessing to all of our community this holiday season!