The Wheel of the Year

Samhuinn is the last night of October, the hinge on which the Celtic year turns from the light half to the dark.

Yule is the winter solstice, the longest night, the still point at the bottom of the year.

Imbolg is the first of February, the first stirring of spring under the snow.

Ostara is the spring equinox, the day the balance tilts from dark toward light, when day and night stand equal and then the light begins to win.

Beltane is May Eve, the fire-feast of the greenwood, the day the light half of the year truly begins.

Litha is the summer solstice, the longest day, the Sun at the very peak of his throne.

Lughnasadh is the first of August, the first harvest, the feast at which the grain-king is cut down.

Mabon is the autumn equinox, the second harvest, the day the balance tilts from light back toward dark.