Samhain, Halloween or Beltane?

As the leaves turn yellow and fall in the Northern Hemisphere, Samhain and the thinning of the veils approaches. However, we Antipodean witches of the Southern Hemisphere are surrounded by Spring blooms and new life as Beltane draws near.

So what are we celebrating?

• Samhain - is the Gaelic Sabbat held as the veils between the living and the dead thin. Held on April 30th 2022, this Sabbat has already passed this year.
• Halloween - is the popular modern holiday celebrated by folks of various religions and spiritual beliefs throughout the world. Folks dress up and embrace all thing spooky and scary.
• Beltane - is one of the greater Gaelic Sabbats, celebrating life, fertility and the peak of springtime. Fire festivals, feasts are handfastings are held during this time.

Beltane and Halloween both occur on October 31st in the Southern Hemisphere this year.

To celebrate both, this witch recommends decorating with red, yellow and orange blooms such as marigolds, calendula, roses and sunflowers. These will look excellent with the rest of your spooky decor while paying homage to the spirit of Beltane. Gather up the coven for a Beltane bonfire and a Halloween costume party to celebrate both event!

Author of this post: Natasha McLoughlin
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