Yule

Yule is a pagan holiday celebrated on December 21, the day of the winter solstice, when night and day are of equal duration. This special moment in time symbolized the end of the cold and the beginning of the new year for many inhabitants of the planet in ancient times.

History

Yule is a powerful holiday closely associated with the sun, since people are highly dependent on it. It is said that on the night of Yule, the Mother Goddess gave birth to a child – the Sun God – who dies on the night of Sumain and returns to life on this holiday. Spirits and evil spirits emerge from all corners to witness the Sun God’s new appearance, so ordinary people must be very careful. According to Icelandic legends, the most terrifying creature to emerge is the Yule Cat, who supervises the festivities. He checks to make sure the house is clean and people are wearing clean clothes, and the treats are delicious. If he finds something unsatisfactory, he will eat all the food. If he does not get enough food, the people in the house suffer his wrath. In folklore, the Yule Cat is known for its fearlessness, the ability to teleport from one place to another, and to turn water into ice. It is also not afraid of fire. If everything pleases it, it will reward the household with expensive gifts.

Interesting facts

Some symbols associated with Yule are:

• The Wish Tree, an analogue of the Christmas tree;
• A log, which is made 12 days before the celebration and is decorated;
• A wreath, which is handmade and hung over the fireplace or set on a table, and is usually colored red or green.

How to take part

To take part in the celebration of Yule, explore the traditions of different nations. If your area has special events, join them. Decorate your house and buy the necessary decorations. Prepare festive dishes and invite your loved ones.

When is Yule celebrated in 2023?

Yule is observed on December 21 each year.

Observations