Samhain (a Gaelic word pronounced “Sow-win”) originates from ancient Celtic spiritual traditions and is usually celebrated from October 31st to November 1st to welcome in the harvest and the darker half of the year.
During this time of the year ancient Celts would leave the hearth fires in the family home to burn out whilst the harvest was gathered. After the harvest work was completed, celebrants joined with the community priests to light a community fire using a wheel that would cause friction and spark flames. The wheel was considered a representation of the sun and participants took a flame from the communal bonfire back to their home to relight the hearth.
As the middle ages progressed the celebrations of Samhain evolved into bonfires which were lit near every farm to protect families from fairies and witches. Carved turnips called jack o lanterns began to appear which was switched by the Irish to pumpkins. Mumming began to be practised where children put on costumes and went door to door singing songs to the dead; payment was given as cakes to thank them.
Christianity declared All Saints Day on the 1st November and All Souls Day would follow on the 2nd November.
For me, I like to honour my ancestors; to have a moment to reflect on members of my family and friends that may have passed already. I also like to honour the ancestors that I didn’t know but without whom I would not be here. I light candles, create a crystal grid (definitely using my skulls!), give thanks, write some intentions for the following year and enjoy a glass of my favourite mulled brew! Enjoy!
Samhain Brew:
You will need:
2 pints of red wine
2 pints of apple cider or apple juice
100ml pomegranate juice
Mulled spice bag (Schwartz do a great one!)
Sugar to taste (I use about 100g)
Apple slices – shaped into stars or crescent moons
Orange peels – spirals
Method:
- Add all the ingredients above to a large pot and simmer for 25 mins (making sure you stir it regularly).
- After setting your intentions for the next year – honour your ancestors by placing a glass of brew next to the candle you have used during your intentions.
