Celebrating the Winter Soltice- Witch Edition
The witches of Bangtan, and a vast majority of werewolves, celebrate pagan holidays. These witches have followed the same traditions for years in addition to their own personal spirital guidance. Since they are made up of both Wiccan and Pagan witches, they always go into these parties with an open mind and heart. Even if they do not follow the same beliefs, they have the same values and traditions. After a large feast and gift exchange, the witches light their Yule log and sing well into the night. Dancing and pranks are common practice at these parties. While everyone coven comes together on the 21st, each of them have their own traditions they do at their own homes for the rest of the holiday. The most important part of the holiday is giving thanks and spending time with the people you love.
Execution
After the feast is done, a small gift exchange is underway. While this is not a necessary practice, the witches enjoy giving to one another. It is a way to say 'thank you' for all of the help for the year. It is also a wonderful way to give your friend good luck and protection for the new year. The witches believe that this can cause the upcoming harvest to be plentiful. All of these gifts are homemade and made to their recipient's liking. This can include jewlery, foods and preserves, alter items, handmade clothing; among other things. This is a favorite amonst children.
Components and tools
No Yule celebration would be complete without a Yule Tree. Typically pine, it is then decorated with homemade ornaments and garlands. Yule goats are another important part of the Yule traditions and are handmade every year from straw and red ribbons. These are then hug on the tree alongside the dried fruits and popcorn.
Many foods can be eaten during Yule but mainly consists of what is available. Wassail is a typical drink served during this time as well as a large, roasted ham. Desserts are also important for the celebration.
The burning of the Yule long is the most important tradition as it is a way to bring the light back on the longest night of the year. It is also a time of family and comfort. This is the time of year that everyone is taking a break from their long work to spend time with family. Drinking, singing, and dancing all happen around the fire.
The alter one might set up for Yule will be drastically different form person-to-person. Children are an exception to this rule since most of them do not have their own alter, or their alters only have basic tools and equiptment. This is for safety, usually. This is a way they have a personal connection with their ancestors and the Gods/Goddess during this time.
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