Samhain

Pronounced "Sow-en" or "Sah-veen" this Sabbat is the perhaps the best known and beloved of holidays for Witches and Pagans everywhere! It is the only openly Pagan holiday still celebrated by the general public as "Halloween" with traditions, games, and decorations nearly unchanged from ancient times! This is the last of the three harvest Sabbats and marks the Turn of the Wheel of life, when the Old Year trades places with the New Year. For this reason, Samhain is commonly called the "Witches' New Year." This Sabbat is heavily associated with the Crone aspect of the Goddess, and Deities such as Hecate or Persephone are often remembered at this time of the year.

Tradition tells us that the Veil that marks the Boundary between the world of the living and the realm of the spirits is very thin at this time of the year, and on Samhain night spirits return to us, often visiting loved ones or favorite places. Costumes and masks were used to allow living people to move unobtrusively among the spirits around and also to guard the living against unwanted spirit attention. Jack-o'-lanterns served a dual purpose: their light was to guide friendly spirits back to the spirit world when their wandering was done, and their frightening faces were to drive away any evil spirits that might be lurking around a home!

The custom of having children go from house to house in costume and masks to demand candy while issuing the threat of "Trick or Treat" comes from the idea that this is a night to honor all the spirits of the dead, which might mingle among the costumed children. If the homeowner gave a gift of food or candy to the spirits, then the spirits would bless the house. If the homeowner ignored the spirits, then the household would be visited with ill luck in the coming year. Modern Pagan rites are very much concerned with remembering the Ancestors and our Loved Ones who have died before us. Altars are typically lit with candles and memorabilia for the dead and a "Spirit Feast" is offered. Many Pagans will leave a plate of food and drink out for the dead, allowing the spirits to partake of the Sabbat feast.

Traditional robes at this time are often black, and usually include either a veil or a mask to cover the face. Foods eaten at this Sabbat include spice cakes and pumpkin pies, spicy meats and vegetables like corn, squash, and potatoes. Dishes of nuts and candies are offered . Apple cider and mead are often served as drinks.

Make merry, and blessed be!