Calan Gaeaf

Calan Gaeaf is a holiday marking the onset of winter and is celebrated each year in Wales on November 1. Often called the “Mother of Halloween,” its festivities include dressing up as spooky characters. Many consider Calan Gaeaf to be a precursor to modern Halloween.

History

Calan Gaeaf has long been surrounded by superstition. Traditionally, people danced around bonfires and carved their names on stones, which they threw into the fire. The next morning, they would look for their stones—if their name had been burned off, it was a sign of good luck; if their stone was missing, it was seen as an omen of bad luck.

On the night of Calan Gaeaf, people believed that spirits approached the boundary between worlds but hadn’t yet crossed over. As a result, they would avoid cemeteries and crossroads. With nights growing longer and days shorter, the holiday is also a time to remember those from the other world.

Interesting Facts

• Calan Gaeaf is sometimes called the “Welsh Halloween.”
• One of the best-known traditions is the “Yr Hwch Ddu Gwta” (“the tailless black sow”)—a mythical creature said to appear on this night, chasing late-night revelers home.
• The custom of marking stones and checking them the next morning for good luck is unique to Calan Gaeaf.
• Bonfires and communal gatherings are central to the celebration, much like ancient Samhain festivals.
• Calan Gaeaf reflects the connection between Welsh culture and ancient Celtic traditions.

How to Take Part

Host your own Calan Gaeaf gathering with a wintry or spooky theme. Plan decorations, treats, and drinks to share with friends. Watch your favorite horror films together, or visit a haunted location for extra excitement. Embrace traditions like carving names on stones or organizing a bonfire to connect with the spirit of the holiday.

When is Calan Gaeaf in 2025?

Calan Gaeaf is observed on November 1 each year.

Observations