This weekend, many modern Pagans, Wiccans, Witches, and polytheists in the Northern Hemisphere will celebrate the fire festival of Imbolc, sacred to the goddess Brigid, patroness of poets, healers, and smiths. The festival is traditionally observed around February 1 or 2, though many groups schedule their rituals and gatherings throughout the weekend to accommodate work and personal commitments.
Similarly, February 1 marks the feast day of Saint Brigid of Ireland, the patron saint of poets, dairymaids, blacksmiths, healers, cattle, fugitives, Irish nuns, midwives, and newborns. In Kildare, Ireland, a perpetual flame burns in her honor, housed within a statue that pays tribute to Brigid’s enduring influence.
In Ireland, this year’s celebration will once again coincide with a national public holiday. The first Monday of February is officially recognized as a bank holiday in honor of St. Brigid’s Day and Imbolc, symbolizing the arrival of early spring. It remains the first public holiday in Ireland named after a woman—a Christian saint whose veneration overlaps with the ancient Celtic goddess.
Historically, this time of year has also been marked by seasonal and agricultural transitions. As Ralph Whitlock noted in 1982 (Guardian Publication Ltd), “Outside the Roman Catholic Church, Candlemas Day, February 2, now has little significance in Britain. In the ecclesiastical calendar, it is the feast of the Purification of the Virgin Mary, referring to the ancient custom that required a mother to offer candles on her first visit to church after childbirth. Actually, it supersedes a much older pagan festival, the feast of Imbolc…. A Celtic quarter-day in pre-Christian Britain, Imbolc belongs to a pastoral calendar which preceded the agricultural one… Imbolc was important in marking the traditional beginning of the lambing season.”
Whitlock also explained why early February, despite often harsh winter weather, was ideal for lambing: “Lambs born then are just the right age in April and May to make full use of the spring grass… and they are ready for marketing as fat lambs in early July, when prices are at their peak. So February lambs are worth the extra trouble.”
Brigid’s veneration extends far beyond Ireland. The goddess Brigantia, a figure linked to Brigid, was worshipped in Celtic (Gallo-Roman and Romano-British) religion. Towns such as Brigetio (Hungary), Briançonnet and Briançon (France), Bragança (Portugal), and the cities of A Coruña and Betanzos (Spain) still bear traces of her name.
The late scholar Alexei Kondratiev described Imbolc as a time of fire and renewal: “The fire of Brigantia was both the fire of fertility with the earth and the fire of the sun, which gradually gained in strength as the days lengthened. The lighting of bonfires or candles was an expression of magical encouragement to the sun, as well as a sign of rejoicing at the more abundant light. Traditionally, Imbolc marked the point after which it would no longer be necessary to carry a candle when going out to do early morning work.” (The Apple Branch: A Path to Celtic Ritual)
In the Southern Hemisphere, many modern Pagans, Wiccans, Witches, and polytheists will mark the first harvest, Lughnassadh or Lammas. The fire festival marks the beginning of the harvest season honoring the first fruits of the grain harvest and pays tribute to the god Lugh. Many individuals honoring the day make offerings of fruits, grains, and ale to the gods and spirits, lighting sacred fires for protection and prosperity. The festival is associated with feasting and community gatherings, and as many have noted in the past, Yes! We have a bread festival.
The Feast of Oyá
The Crown of Oyá [artwork credit: M. Tejeda-Moreno
Hekua Hey Yansa!
The Feast of Maman Brigitte
February 2 is also the Feast of Maman Brigitte, a powerful Lwa of the Dead in the Vodou tradition. Author Lilith Dorsey shared with The Wild Hunt that “This is one of my absolute favorite times of year. I get the chance to celebrate the ‘fiery one,’ the Goddess Brigit.” Dorsey further explained, “[Maman Brigitte] is a powerful Lwa of the Dead, a foremother dedicated to justice and wisdom. My own spiritual house is dedicated to her, and me and my godchildren take special care to honor her at this time.”
Other traditions also recognize these early days of February in unique ways. Some Celtic reconstructionist traditions observe this time in honor of Cú Chulainn’s three-day combat with his foster brother Fer Diad, an epic battle recorded in the Táin Bó Cúailnge. In the Urglaawe Heathen tradition, February 2 marks the beginning of Entschtanning (“the emergence”), a twelve-day observance focused on hearth cleansing and honoring female ancestors and spirits.
Setsubun (節分)
Setsubun is a traditional Japanese festival marking the transition from winter to spring according to the old lunar calendar. It is celebrated on February 3rd each year, the day before Risshun (立春), which is considered the first day of spring in Japan.
In 2025, Setsubun will fall on Monday, February 3rd. Setsubun represents a spiritual cleansing—banishing misfortune from the past year and welcoming good luck for the year ahead. While it is no longer recognized as the official start of the new year in Japan, it carries New Year-like significance for many.
In addition to visiting shrines and partaking of a lucky sushi ritual (eating an unbroken sushi roll (ehōmaki) in complete silence while facing a specific direction for luck, southwest in 2025), one famous ritual performed during Setsubun is Mamemaki (豆まき) of Bean Throwing ritual to drive away evil spirits (oni) and invite good fortune into homes and businesses. People throw roasted soybeans (fukumame, 福豆) while chanting “Oni wa soto! Fuku wa uchi!” (鬼は外! 福は内!), meaning “Demons out! Fortune in!”
[Editorial note: We don’t know if it will work on elected officials but worth a try.]
Black History Month
Logo for Black History Month 2025 via Association for the Study of African American Life and History
February marks Black History Month, an annual observance in the United States and other countries celebrating the history, achievements, and contributions of Black individuals and communities. It is a time for reflection on the struggles, resilience, and impact of Black people in shaping society, from cultural advancements to economic contributions.
For 2025, the theme of Black History Month is “African Americans and Labor.” This theme highlights the significant roles Black individuals have played in the workforce throughout history, from the earliest days of enslavement to their impact on modern industries. The theme will cover three elements:
- Focus on Labor:
- Black workers have historically contributed to industries spanning agriculture, construction, manufacturing, and professional fields. This theme acknowledges their labor, often performed under conditions of oppression and discrimination, and their perseverance in shaping the American economy.
- Historical Perspective:
- The theme provides an opportunity to examine the complex history of Black laborers, from slavery and sharecropping to labor unions and the fight for workplace rights. It also explores the racial barriers that have shaped Black workers’ experiences, including segregation and wage disparities.
- Celebrating Achievements:
- Black History Month 2025 will also highlight achievements and contributions in various fields, from the labor movement to business leadership. Figures such as A. Philip Randolph, who organized the first predominantly African American labor union, and Frances Perkins, who advocated for Black workers’ rights in the New Deal era, will be recognized.
This year’s Black History Month comes amid shifts in federal diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies. In January, former President Trump’s executive order ended DEI programs across the government, leading to uncertainty among federal agencies on how to comply. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth recently announced the formation of a task force to eliminate DEI programs in the Pentagon, stating that “DEI is gone.”
Amid these changes, questions arose about whether Black History Month and other heritage celebrations would continue. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt affirmed that the administration “still intends to celebrate” Black History Month, emphasizing that the White House will continue to recognize the contributions of all Americans.
[Editorial note: The bean-throwing ritual is starting to look perfect, eh?]
Events and Happenings!
Circle Sanctuary’s 2025 Imbolc Festival will be held on Saturday, February 1 from 10:00 am to 7 pm at Circle Sanctuary Nature Preserve near Barneveld, Wisconsin.
This family-friendly festival will include workshops, rituals, poetry, a bonfire and a soup supper. Imbolc, an ancient Celtic Fire Festival, brings the promise of spring, a time to renew and awaken our passions and dreams. Join us as we ignite our inner flames for personal growth. The cost of in-person attendance is $30 for adults, $15 for children and youth ages 5-17, and free for children 5 and under. Brigid Enchantments, a virtual workshop, will be live-streamed from our on-site Imbolc Festival. Registration is required for both events.
Circle Sanctuary is a non-profit international Nature Spirituality resource center and legally recognized Nature Spirituality church. Founded in 1974, Circle helps people from many spiritual orientations connect with each other as well as with the spiritual dimensions of Nature.
Note: This is part one of a two-part sharing. The second part will be a discussion based on this presentation. But do not worry if you miss this one you can find the recording at https://www.youtube.com/@earthbasedspirituality.
Milt Markewitz is a longtime Indigenous ally. Milt understands that we cannot fix a system using the same ideas that caused the problem and offer ideas to help us develop different ways to look at things.
The meeting is via Zoom using the link or via the app enter the Meeting ID: 890 3027 2698 and Passcode: CCL
Restored Rites of Eleusis to Return for 39th Year at Spring Mysteries Festival
SEATTLE, WA – January 3, 2025 – Spring Mysteries Festival, the premier event dedicated to the revival and celebration of ancient spiritual traditions, is thrilled to announce the Restored Rites of Eleusis will be performed in Seattle, Washington this coming spring. The sacred rituals once lost to time, will be brought to life through an immersive experience during the festival, a vibrant celebration of the ancient Greek Mysteries held in honor of Demeter, Persephone, and the agricultural cycles that define the seasonal rhythms of the Earth.
The Eleusinian Mysteries, which date back over 2,500 years to Ancient Greece, were deeply rooted in themes of life, death, and rebirth. For centuries, they were held in secrecy and exclusivity, open only to initiates who experienced profound spiritual awakening through symbolic rituals, including the myth of Demeter and Persephone. The Restored Rites of the Eleusinian Mysteries at the Spring Mysteries Festival will carefully recreate these sacred rites, blending historical authenticity with modern interpretation to create an awe-inspiring, immersive experience.
“We are honored to bring back the ancient spiritual rites that have been preserved in myth and lore for millennia,” said Belladonna LaVeau, the festival organizer. “Spring Mysteries Festival is not just a celebration—it is an opportunity for profound personal growth, connection to the earth and the divine,e and a chance to experience the legacy of one of the most powerful spiritual traditions of our time.”
Beyond the rituals, the Spring Mysteries Festival will feature a rich array of workshops, performances, and artistic expressions inspired by the themes of the Eleusinian Mysteries. Participants will have the chance to explore aspects of pagan spirituality, ancient mythologies, sacred arts, and holistic wellness practices. There will be opportunities to engage in guided meditations, learn about herbalism, delve into the history of the Eleusinian Mysteries, and connect with like-minded individuals on a shared journey of spiritual discovery.
Tickets for the Spring Mysteries Festival are now available. For more information about the event, to purchase tickets, or to learn more, SpringMysteries or follow the festival on Facebook at
The Spring Mysteries Festival is an annual event that gathers people from all over the world to celebrate the ancient mysteries of Demeter and Persephone and the cycles of life, death and rebirth. The festival offers a transformative spiritual experience through rituals, workshops and performances based on the timeless wisdom of the ancient world. Now in its 39th year, the festival is recognized as a leading event in the pagan and spiritual communities.
More information about Spring Mysteries is available on their event site. Here’s the cast:
There’s a new Pagan even in town! Well, actually in Portland, Oregon…
Spirit Northwest is the West Coast Pagan conference in Portland, May 1 – 4 2025.
Spirit Northwest is a transformative and new format gathering for seekers, offering 90 and 120-minute immersive workshops on Paganism, witchcraft, and natural magick.
We heard from many in the occult community that people longed for in-depth workshops and rituals, hands-on learning, and make-and-takes with well-known speakers, ritualists, and practitioners.
Amy Blackthorn is the award-winning author of the best-selling Blackthorn’s Botanicals series.
J. Allen Cross is an accomplished author and folk magician known for his book American Brujeria: Modern Mexican American Folk Magic and The Witch’s Guide to the Paranormal.
Maria Minnis is a tarot reader of 20+ years who teaches people about blending their spirituality with magic, liberation work, and eroticism in their everyday lives.
We took action and are bringing it to you all in one weekend!
🧙 Opportunities to raise your visibility:
Be a Speaker: Share your wisdom! Applications are closing soon—don’t miss your chance to lead.
Become a Sponsor: Elevate your brand to a highly engaged, diverse audience hungry for magickal tools, insights, and connections. Five sponsorship levels offer options with vendor spaces to hotel suites.
📅 Mark Your Calendar:
- Vendor Applications Open: January 15, 2025.
Schedule Launch: Coming soon via Sched.
Hotel Reservations: Available now.
Saturday Night Entertainment: Stay tuned for the big reveal!
We are excited to learn and meet you all one-on-one in-person conference for Witches and Magickally-Minded people.
🔮 Let’s make magick together in Portland May 1 – 4th.
Your Hosts: Courtney Weber, Kanani Soleil, Hilary Whitmore, and Silent.
More information is available on the Spirt Northwest website
Do you have news to share with our community?
Announcements? Festivals? Elevations? Events?
We’ll share it with the community!
Let us know at pcn@wildhunt.org
Tarot of the Week by Star Bustamonte
Deck: After Tarot, by Pietro Alligo, artwork by Giulia E. Massaglia. published by Lo Scarabeo.
Card: Major Arcana V (5), The Hierophant
The next seven days are apt to prompt actions to identify and align with those who hold similar ideologies and practices that promote greater learning and understanding. There is also likely to be a spiritual undercurrent to the week that encourages reviewing and possibly reviving, traditions that have fallen by the wayside. Seeking spiritual guidance from a trusted elder or teacher may be helpful, even if their core values may not exactly line up with those currently held.
Conversely, there is the potential for serious questioning of beliefs, procedures, and the status quo. When the answer for why something is done a certain way is, “Because we have always done it this way” with little or no supporting information or explanation, there are very likely going to be challenges to those practices. The potential for developing new ways of performing tasks and practices, as well as shifting one’s thinking and being willing to speak truth to power are liable to be very prevalent.
And finally, Cher looks fabulous in the new Australian Uber Eats commercial and she’s accused of Witchcraft! Apparently, Cher casts over-casually casts time portal (a lesson to us all really) with her 1989 hit “If I Could Turn Back Time” and f finds herself transported to a 1680s Monty Python-inspired village.
Of course, Cher is flawless…. and the boots *chef’s kiss*
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