Page 166 - NT 2022 Almanac

21st December Winter solstice or Midwinter or Yule
The winter solstice or Midwinter falls on the shortest day of the year and has been celebrated in Britain for hundreds of years. Many pagan traditions of Yule have found their way into the celebration of Christmas. At Yule, pagans light candles and fires, decorate their homes with evergreen plants, feast, dance and give gifts. All these things are now traditional at
Christmas, too.
Pagans also believe that hanging a sprig of holly near the door brings good luck and keeps away evil spirits. Mistletoe is also hung as a decoration and as a blessing and symbol of new life.
Five ways to Celebrate Midwinter
Go on a walk to gather greenery for your home. Light a fire or a circle of candles.
Tell stories around the fire or by candlelight. Have a feast with your favourite food and
favourite family and friends!
Write down a list of everything you have to be
thankful for in the past year.
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