Category: Witch History

What is The Autumn Equinox / Mabon

Learn all about the Autumn Equinox also called Mabon in some witch practices, in todays post by UK Witch and Tarot reader AJ

The wheel of the year continues to turn and it’s time for another feast day. The Autumn Equinox is here, to some practices, called Mabon (Mah-bon), after Welsh God Mabon, son of Earth Mother Goddess, Modron (who actually has nothing to do with the equinox…)

When is the Autumn Equinox / Mabon?

The Autumn Equinox almost always falls on either the 22nd or 23rd September (although in rare cases the window is from 21st September – 24th September at 02:03am BST.

In 2025, the Autumn Equinox is Monday 22nd September.

What is the Autumn Equinox?

The Autumn Equinox marks the end of summer and the beginning of Autumn, on this date, day and night are of equal length before the longer nights and shorter days start creeping in. Everything is at that perfect balance but also on the cusp of change.

What is Mabon?

Mabon is a feast in reconstructed paganism and the Wiccan faith, it only really started becoming labelled as Mabon around the 1970s but for many, the name kind of stuck.

Mabon is not only become the feast of the Autumm Equinox but also the Second Harvest, the Harvest of fruit and around the ‘harvest festival’ which some of you may remember from school. The Harvest Festival is traditionally celebrated on the Sunday nearest the harvest moon, the full moon nearest the Autumn Equinox.

It’s a time to reflect and celebrate on the year so far with the ‘reaping what you have sown’ mentality and seeing all of the benefits of your hard work so far.

For me, the most important part is the resting side. As the days grow darker and the nights grow longer, we are supposed to rest. After the feast and celebrating is done, we are supposed to retreat, use less energy and get through the winter. Like we used to before *capitalism*.

How can I celebrate the Equinox / Mabon?

Whether it’s making blackberry jam with your own little fruit harvest or just embracing the autumn aesthetic and adding some colour magic to your wardrobe, here are a bunch of things you can do to celebrate the equinox and Mabon, some low energy and some more intense:

  • Dress in Mabon colours: just as the leaves have changed, embrace earthy colours to match. Browns, deep reds, golds and dark greens
  • Eat Seasonal Food: I love to make a stew using squashes (like pumpkin) from the local organic green grocer. Hopefully next year I’ll be able to grow my own! if that’s a little too much, an apple pie from McDonald’s is also valid.
  • Go Blackberry picking: Get your own little harvest, you can use these to make blackberry jam, pies and syrups or even just eat them with sugar and be thankful for the bounty. This is generally the last time the berries are still good.
  • Hold a thanksgiving ritual: Write a letter to the universe of everything you’re thankful for this year so far. You can make it proper witchy by burning the list on the day of the Equinox and releasing that thankful energy into the universe
  • Light a candle: With the nights growing longer we’ll need to bring more light in, I use yellow / gold candles to symbolise that the sun will return.
  • Wind down and get comfy: This is the time when we’re supposed to rest and hibernate so do not feel guilty about grabbing a blanket and settling in with a cup of tea and a good book. It’s what we’re supposed to be doing and it’s a ritual in itself.

How will you celebrate the equinox this year?

WIN! Witchy Type Competition: The Extraordinary History Of Witches – Hazel Atkinson

We’re giving you the chance to win a copy of the fabulous ‘The Extraordinary History Of Witches’ by Hazel Atkinson

Hello Coven,

A very exciting way to start the week with a #WitchyTypeGiveaway as this week we’re giving you the chance to win a copy of the fabulous ‘The Extraordinary History Of Witches’ by Hazel Atkinson details on how to enter our fabulous giveaway below!

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The Back of The Extraordinary History Of Witches - Hazel Atkinson

How to Enter Giveaway

[The Power of] Three ways to enter (do both for triple the magic! ):

 Social Entry: Share with us your favourite historical Witch making sure to include the hashatag #WitchyTypeGiveway.

 Email Entry: Send us a message with #WitchyTypeManifestGiveaway in the subject line to emma@emfluence.co.uk or 

Form Entry: Just fill out this form to enter the competition.

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 Giveaway closes at midnight on 30.9.2025! (Psst… We don’t store or share your data.)

Brujeria page - The Extraordinary History Of Witches - Hazel Atkinson

About the Book

Discover the spellbinding history of witches in this guide to all things witchcraft for children.

Travel through time and across the globe in this book for children aged 8-12 as they uncover bewitching tales of historical witch trials, folklore and potions.

Featuring immersive storytelling from author Hazel Atkinson and enchanting illustrations from Camelia Pham, this book covers everything from the origin of the word “witch” to the modern-day beliefs of Wiccans. Meet magical women and hear about different forms of magic, from Ancient Egyptian Heka to South American Brujeria.

Author: Hazel Atkinson

Illustrated by: Camella Pham

Get the book: Amazon Link / DK Link

As you can see the illustration by Camella Pham are simply STUNNING, honey! Now, it wouldn’t be Digital Cove if we didn’t give you an opportunity to get your questions over to the Author themselves, so if you have a question you’d like us to ask Hazel Atkinson, use the details below.

European Witch Trial page from The Extraordinary History Of Witches - Hazel Atkinson

Exclusive Author Insights Coming Soon!

Stay tuned for our interview with Hazel Atkinson, where we’ll chat about all things Witchcraft and Folklore related!

Do you have a question that you’d like us to ask Hazel Atkinson ? Send us your questions over either via email to emma@emfluence.co.uk or send them this submission form here: https://forms.gle/PdHxLg44TSggm1hF8

Submit Question
The Empress Chen Jiao Page from The Extraordinary History Of Witches - Hazel Atkinson

Want More Witchy Wonders?

 Book a tarot reading or workshop with Me, Emma, just email  emma@emfluence.co.uk and we can go from there.


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Digital Coven and Witchy Type Founder Emma Carney

Until next time Coven, all the love 

You’re Crazy Witch Aunt, Ems x X

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Image Credits: Amazon Profile

The History and Celebration of Lughnasadh and Lammas : Embracing the First Harvest Festival

Today is the first harvest festival of the year. Today we delve into the the History and Celebration of Lughnasadh and Lammas.

It’s August 1st darlings, which can mean only one thing – It’s time to Celebrate Lughnasadh! Who doesn’t like giving thanks and having a wee party, eh? Lughnasadh, also known Lammas in some areas of the UK, is a significant festival in the Wheel of the Year, marking the beginning of the Harvest season. Celebrated on August 1st, Lughnasadh is a time to give thanks for the first fruits of the earth and to honor the Celtic god Lugh. This ancient festival, rich in history and tradition, is a vibrant blend of pagan, Christian, and agricultural elements – Who doesn’t love a bit of diversity at a party, am I right?

The Historical Roots of Lammas

Pagan Origins

The term “Lammas” is derived from the Old English/ Anglo Saxon word “hlafmaesse,” meaning “loaf mass.” It was traditionally the time when the first grain harvest was celebrated, and loaves of bread were baked from the new wheat crop. These loaves were then used in rituals and as offerings. Who doesn’t love an excuse to eat cards, eh? 

Lammas corresponds with the Celtic festival of Lughnasadh, named after the god Lugh. Lugh was a god of light, skill, and craftsmanship, celebrated in many myths for his talents and leadership. Lughnasadh was a time for feasting, games, and community gatherings, reflecting the communal effort required for the harvest. Check out my other posts on Lughnasadh and Lammas – What’s the Difference?  And my post The Celtic Celebration of Lammas and the God Lugh for more info on these. (I know, I know, it’s an actual harvest of content today, isn’t it? You’re most welcome, coven) 

How It Inspired The Christian Tradition 

With the advent of Christianity, Lammas and Lughnasadh became ‘integrated’ into the Christian calendar. It evolved into a thanksgiving for the first fruits, and loaves of bread were blessed in churches. This blending of traditions illustrates the adaptability of early Christian practices to local customs and agricultural cycles. 

“Two men from the British Isles harvest wheat / Deux hommes des îles Britanniques récoltent du blé” by BiblioArchives / LibraryArchives is licensed under CC BY 2.0.

Agricultural Significance

Lughnasadh / Lammas is deeply rooted in agricultural traditions. It marks the time when the hard work of planting and tending crops begins to bear fruit. The first grains of the year are harvested, a crucial milestone for agrarian societies. This celebration of abundance is also a reminder of the need for continued hard work to ensure a bountiful harvest in the coming months.

Celebrating Lughnasadh and Lammas Today

Modern celebrations of Lughnasadh / Lammas can vary widely, reflecting its diverse origins and the personal beliefs of those who observe it. Here are some common ways to celebrate this festival, both traditionally and in contemporary settings.

Rituals and Practices

  1. Bread Baking and Offering
    Baking bread is one of the most traditional ways to celebrate Lammas. The act of baking symbolizes transformation and the cycle of life, as the harvested grain is turned into sustenance. Here is a simple ritual to try:


Materials Needed:

  • Flour, yeast, water, salt, and any other bread ingredients you prefer.
  • A loaf pan or baking sheet.
  • Candles for your altar.
  1. Instructions:
  • Set up a small altar with candles, representing the light and warmth of the harvest.
  • As you mix the ingredients, focus on your intentions for the bread. Consider what you are grateful for and what you wish to manifest.
  • While kneading the dough, chant or sing to imbue the bread with positive energy.
  • Once baked, place the bread on the altar and offer thanks to the earth for its bounty. You can share the bread with loved ones or use it in further rituals.

“Harvest Moon” by Turku Gingerbread is licensed under CC BY 2.0.

  1. Harvest Feast
    Hosting a feast with friends and family is a joyous way to celebrate Lammas. Use seasonal fruits, vegetables, and grains to create a meal that honors the first harvest. Decorate your space with sheaves of wheat, sunflowers, and other symbols of abundance.
  1. Crafting Corn Dollies
    Corn dollies are traditional crafts made from the last sheaf of wheat harvested. These figures were believed to house the spirit of the grain and were kept until the next planting season to ensure a good crop. To make a corn dolly:
    Materials Needed:
  • Dried wheat stalks or corn husks.
  • String or ribbon.
  1. Instructions:
  • Soak the wheat stalks or corn husks in water to make them pliable.
  • Braid or weave the stalks into a figure, tying them with string or ribbon to hold the shape.
  • Place the corn dolly on your altar or hang it in your home as a symbol of prosperity and protection.

“File:Contemporary male Corn dolly.jpg” by Mountainash333 is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.

I also like to make ‘Dollies’ out of flowers and grass, especially when I sat in a field doing my thanksgiving. Above is a very fancy Male Corn Dolly representing ‘The Harvest Father’ 

  1. Offering to the Land
    Making offerings to the land is a way to give thanks and honor the earth. You can offer a portion of your harvested fruits, vegetables, or baked goods to the land. Simply find a special place in nature and leave your offering with a prayer of gratitude.
  1. Reflection and Gratitude Ritual
    Lammas is a time for reflection and gratitude. Set aside time to meditate on the past year’s growth and challenges. Write down what you are thankful for and what you hope to achieve in the coming months. Burn the paper as an offering, symbolizing the release of your intentions into the universe.

“Mabon Altar 2012” by Pearl Photo is marked with Public Domain Mark 1.0.

Incorporating Lughnasadh / Lammas into Modern Life

While the traditional practices of Lammas are deeply rooted in agrarian life, they can be adapted to suit modern lifestyles. Here are some ideas for incorporating Lammas into your life, regardless of your living situation:

  1. Urban Celebrations
    Even if you live in an urban environment, you can celebrate Lammas by visiting a local farmers’ market and purchasing seasonal produce. Support local agriculture by buying fresh fruits, vegetables, and bread. As a London Dweller myself, I always try to find some green space (believe it or not there is some in London!) and take some time to sit and pay gratitude, and if able do a few wee rituals. Also, growing herbs and other things in window boxes and on balconeys is another great way to get your green witchcraft hat on!
  1. Gardening and Planting
    If you have a garden, use Lammas as a time to tend to your plants and reflect on the cycle of growth. Planting herbs or flowers that thrive in late summer can be a symbolic act of honoring the earth. If you are low energy, then just sitting in your garden or green space having a coffee can be just as sacred.
  1. Community Involvement
    Lammas is about community and sharing. Volunteer at a local food bank or community garden to give back to your community. Sharing your time and resources is a modern way to embody the spirit of the first harvest. I also like to go and feed the local crows in my park, and pick up any rubbish as I do so. Little things we do can have a huge impact.
  1. Creative Expressions
    Engage in creative activities that celebrate the themes of Lammas. Paint, write poetry, or create music inspired by the season’s abundance and the myth of Lugh. Creative expression can be a powerful way to connect with the festival’s energy. I love to have a bit of a dance and sing song (rather badly I may add but it’s still bloody fun so why not?!)

Do you celebrate Lughnasadh or Lammas? If so let us know below or via our social channels as we love to hear from you and share our practices. 

Like this article? Why not sign up to our newsletter and or social channels? We love to hear from you! 

@Bunnypudding (Tiktok) / @Bunnyscopes (Instagram)

Ems xX

References

Profile Image: “File:A Contemporary Goddess of the corn . Corn Mother.JPG” by Rowan Duxbury is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0. 

Hutton, Ronald. The Stations of the Sun: A History of the Ritual Year in Britain. Oxford University Press, 1996.

Pennick, Nigel. The Pagan Book of Days: A Guide to the Festivals, Traditions, and Sacred Days of the Year. Destiny Books, 1992.

Farrar, Janet and Stewart. Eight Sabbats for Witches. Robert Hale, 1981.

Grimm, Jacob. Teutonic Mythology. George Bell and Sons, 1883.

MacNeill, Máire. The Festival of Lughnasa: A Study of the Survival of the Celtic Festival of the Beginning of Harvest. Oxford University Press, 1962.

Lughnasadh and Lammas – What’s the Difference? A Very Concise History of the Celtic and Anglo Saxon Nations

We explain what the Celtic Nations are and what the difference between Lughnasadh and Lammas. Snazzy, eh?

Hello Coven, me again, what can I say, I am NEEDY for your love and most likely in the middle of a hyper fixation….You’re welcome! Anyhow, further to my earlier post on Lughnasadh and Lammas I wanted to share a post I wrote for an upcoming project I am working on (around Celtic Heritage….eiiii) about the variance between the two festivals. The British Isles has a fascinating history featuring a mix of cultures including Celtic, Anglo Saxon, Norse (Yip, they get around everywhere, bless ‘em),Norman and even blooming the fabulous cultures that the Roman army brought over, we certainly have a multi-cultural vibe going on. So I just wanted to add a bit more nuance to variance between the festivals historically. 

Firstly, what are the celtic nations? 

“File:Map of Celtic Nations-flag shades.svg” by QuartierLatin1968 is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.

The Celtic Nations

The Celtic nations are regions in Western Europe where Celtic languages and cultural traditions have endured. There are six recognised Celtic nations:

  1. Ireland (Éire) [Green] Aka Emma’s Mother Land ❤
    • Language: Irish Gaelic (Gaeilge)
    • Highlights: Rich traditions in music, dance, and folklore. Historical sites like the Hill of Tara reflect its ancient Celtic roots.
  2. Scotland (Alba) [Blue] Aka Ajs Mother Land 
    • Language: Scottish Gaelic (Gàidhlig)
    • Highlights: Famous for wild haggis, bagpipes, kilts, and Highland games. The language is spoken in the Highlands and the Western Isles, with historical sites like the Callanish Stones. 
  3. Wales (Cymru) [Red] 
    • Language: Welsh (Cymraeg)
    • Highlights: Known for male voice choirs and the Eisteddfod festival. The beautiful Welsh language is NOW widely spoken and taught especially in the north and west but this is only recently but let’s talk about colonisation in another post…. 
  4. Brittany (Breizh) [Black] 
    • Language: Breton (Brezhoneg)
    • Highlights: Located in northwest France, it features traditional music and dance (fest-noz). The Breton language is spoken by a minority, with megalithic sites like Carnac.
  5. Cornwall (Kernow) [Yellow]
    • Language: Cornish (Kernewek)
    • Highlights: Situated in southwestern England, known for mining, fishing, and folklore. The language, like Welsh is experiencing a revival, with cultural sites like Tintagel Castle.
  6. Isle of Man (Mannin) [Mustard] 
    • Language: Manx Gaelic (Gaelg)
    • Highlights: The island has a unique Celtic and Norse heritage, with traditional music and the annual Tynwald Day ceremony. Manx Gaelic is being revived through education.

Other Regions with Celtic Influence

  • Galicia and Asturias (Spain): These regions have significant Celtic cultural elements, especially in music and dance.

And finally England [White]: 

Why England Isn’t a Celtic Nation (Explained Politely)

While certain regions of England, such as Cornwall, have Celtic roots, England as a whole is not considered a Celtic nation. This is due to the significant Anglo-Saxon and Norman influences that have shaped its cultural and linguistic identity, overshadowing the earlier Celtic heritage. The predominant language and cultural practices in England evolved separately from the distinct Celtic traditions maintained in the recognised Celtic nations.

Union of Nations Celtics

“Combined flag of the Celtic nations” by BzhSamTheRipper is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.

Ok, phew – let’s get to the festival variances between the festival and a detailed comparison of the two:

Lughnasadh:

Origins and Etymology

  • Celtic Festival: Lughnasadh is rooted in ancient Celtic tradition. The name Lughnasadh (pronounced “Loo-nah-sah”) is derived from the god Lugh, a prominent deity in Celtic mythology, and “nasadh,” which means assembly.
  • Mythological Significance: Lughnasadh was established by Lugh to honor his foster mother, Tailtiu, who died from exhaustion after clearing the plains of Ireland for agriculture. It is a celebration of the harvest and a commemoration of Tailtiu’s sacrifice. Thanks Tailtiu!

Celebrations and Traditions

  • Feasting and Games: Central to Lughnasadh are communal feasts and athletic games, reflecting Lugh’s associations with skill and competition. These games included horse racing, wrestling, and various contests of strength and agility.
  • Religious Rituals: Offerings of the first fruits of the harvest were made to the gods, particularly to Lugh, to ensure continued fertility and abundance. Rituals often took place at sacred sites such as hilltops and stone circles.
  • Craftsmanship: As Lugh was a god of many talents, craftsmanship and artistic skills were celebrated. Exhibitions and competitions in various crafts were held, showcasing the community’s talents.
  • Fire Festivals: Bonfires were lit as part of the festivities, symbolising purification and the power of the sun. The Celts love a fire festival, and celebrate 4 year. Nice.

Cultural Context

  • Irish and Scottish Heritage: Lughnasadh is primarily celebrated in regions with strong Celtic heritage, such as Ireland and Scotland. It has deep roots in the agricultural calendar and the Celtic mythology of these areas.

“Lúgh Láimh Fada == Lu of the Long Hands” by Liamfm . is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0.

Lammas

Origins and Etymology

  • Anglo-Saxon Festival: Lammas, from the Old English “hlafmaesse,” translates to “loaf mass.” It was a Christian festival that marked the blessing of the first loaf of bread made from the new wheat crop.
  • Christian Integration: As Christianity spread through the British Isles, Lammas became integrated into the Christian liturgical calendar. It was a time to give thanks to God for the first fruits of the harvest and to bless the bread made from the new grain.

“332 Lammas Festival” by Trinity Trees is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0.

Celebrations and Traditions

  • Blessing of Bread: The primary ritual of Lammas involved baking a loaf of bread from the first harvested grain and taking it to church to be blessed. This act symbolized gratitude for the harvest and the provision of daily bread.
  • Feasting and Community Gatherings: Similar to Lughnasadh, Lammas involved communal feasting and sharing of the harvest’s bounty. It was a time for communities to come together and celebrate the season’s abundance.
  • Agricultural Customs: In addition to the religious aspects, Lammas was also marked by various agricultural customs, such as the reaping of the first wheat and the preparation of fields for the next planting season.

Cultural Context

  • Medieval and Early Modern England: Lammas was widely celebrated in medieval and early modern England. It reflects the integration of pagan harvest festivals into the Christian tradition, demonstrating the adaptability and syncretism of religious practices during this period.

Comparison and Modern Celebrations

Common Themes

  • Harvest Celebration: Both Lughnasadh and Lammas celebrate the beginning of the harvest season, giving thanks for the first fruits and acknowledging the hard work of the agricultural cycle.
  • Community and Feasting: Communal meals and gatherings are central to both festivals, fostering a sense of community and shared gratitude.

“Barley-Harvest. [Suffolk.] Peter Henry Emerson” by J. Paul Getty Museum is marked with CC0 1.0.

Differences in Focus

  • Deity vs. Christian Context: Lughnasadh is specifically tied to the Celtic god Lugh and his mythological significance, whereas Lammas is a Christianized festival focusing on the blessing of bread and the harvest.
  • Cultural Origins: Lughnasadh has its roots in Celtic traditions and is primarily associated with Ireland and Scotland. Lammas, on the other hand, is an Anglo-Saxon festival that became integrated into Christian practices in England.

Modern Celebrations

  • Neo-Pagan Practices: Many modern Neo-Pagans celebrate Lughnasadh by incorporating traditional Celtic rituals, such as crafting corn dollies, baking bread, and holding feasts and games. These practices honor the historical roots and the god Lugh.
  • Wiccan Sabbats: In Wiccan tradition, both Lughnasadh and Lammas are celebrated as one of the eight Sabbats in the Wheel of the Year. Wiccans might blend elements of both traditions, focusing on harvest themes, gratitude, and community.
  • Mordern Witches: Many witches follow the wheel of the year but don’t have associations with any deities and in some cases are antheist but include elements of the celebrations in their practices (Again, hello fwends!)
  • Contemporary Christian Observance: Some Christian communities continue to observe Lammas with the blessing of bread and thanksgiving services, maintaining the festival’s historical Christian elements.

“Harvest Altar” by allynfolksjr is licensed under CC BY 2.0.

So there you have it! While Lughnasadh and Lammas share common themes of harvest and gratitude, they originate from distinct cultural and religious traditions. Lughnasadh is deeply rooted in Celtic mythology and the veneration of the god Lugh, while Lammas has its origins in Anglo-Saxon Christian practices centered around the blessing of the first bread. Both festivals, however, offer rich traditions and practices that celebrate the abundance of the earth and the importance of community.

Like this article? Why not sign up to our newsletter and or social channels? We love to hear from you! 

@Bunnypudding (Tiktok) / @Bunnyscopes (Instagram)

Ems xX

References

Featured image: “The grass bends, the oak breaks (harvest series)” by Rising Damp is licensed under CC BY 2.0.

Hutton, Ronald. The Stations of the Sun: A History of the Ritual Year in Britain. Oxford University Press, 1996.

Pennick, Nigel. The Pagan Book of Days: A Guide to the Festivals, Traditions, and Sacred Days of the Year. Destiny Books, 1992.

Farrar, Janet and Stewart. Eight Sabbats for Witches. Robert Hale, 1981.

Grimm, Jacob. Teutonic Mythology. George Bell and Sons, 1883.

MacNeill, Máire. The Festival of Lughnasa: A Study of the Survival of the Celtic Festival of the Beginning of Harvest. Oxford University Press, 1962.

Pumpkin Spice Magic: A Delectable Blend of History, Folklore, and Witchcraft

We’re exploring the history of pumpkin spice, its intriguing ties to witchcraft, and how it’s become an essential part of our seasonal rituals

Spooky Season: It’s that time again. 

As the crisp winds of autumn sweep through the land, a familiar aroma fills the air, beckoning us with its warm, comforting embrace. It’s the enchanting scent of pumpkin spice, a blend that transcends the boundaries of flavors and invokes the essence of Autumn and mania in shopping aisles. Today, we’re exploring the rich history of pumpkin spice, its intriguing ties to folklore and witchcraft, and how this magical mixture has become an essential part of our seasonal rituals and coffee orders.

The Origins of Pumpkin Spice:

Pumpkin spice, that delightful combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger, traces its roots back to ancient civilizations. Spices like cinnamon and nutmeg were highly prized in ancient Egypt and India, not only for their culinary uses but also for their medicinal and mystical properties.

Pumpkin Spice: Folklore and Harvest Celebrations:

The association between pumpkin spice and folklore can be traced to the autumn harvest festivals celebrated by various cultures. Pumpkins, as a quintessential fall crop, were often featured prominently in these celebrations. The spices used in pumpkin spice blends were believed to have protective and purifying qualities. In some traditions, these spices were sprinkled around homes to ward off malevolent spirits and ensure a bountiful harvest.

“Pumpkin Spice” by joyosity is licensed under CC BY 2.0.

What is Pumpkin Spice?

Pumpkin spice, with its aromatic blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger, is more than just a popular flavor of the colder seasons. For witches, it holds a special place in their magical arsenal. Let’s explore the magical properties of the ingredients in pumpkin spice and why it’s a beloved staple in the witch’s pantry.

Cinnamon: Fire of Passion and Protection:

Cinnamon, a key component of pumpkin spice, is associated with the element of fire, making it a potent ingredient in magical practices. Its magical properties include:

  • Passion and Love: Cinnamon is known for kindling the flames of passion and enhancing love spells. It can help rekindle the spark in relationships or attract new romance.
  • Protection: Cinnamon is also used for protective magic, creating a barrier against negative energies and malevolent forces.
  • Abundance: Cinnamon can be used to bring about abundance and encourage wealth. . Many believe cinnamon has a very high spiritual/energetic vibrations that attract luck

“Cinnamon” by Kjokkenutstyr.net is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0.

Nutmeg: Enhancing Psychic Abilities:

Nutmeg, another integral spice in pumpkin spice, is linked to psychic abilities and spiritual insight:

  • Psychic Enhancement: Witches use nutmeg to boost their psychic abilities, making it a valuable tool for divination, meditation, and dream work.
  • Clarity and Wisdom: Nutmeg is believed to enhance mental clarity, aiding in decision-making and deepening one’s understanding of complex matters.

Cloves: Banishing Negativity and Purification:

Cloves, with their sharp and pungent aroma, serve as powerful tools for witches:

  • Banishing Negativity: Cloves are often used in banishing spells to remove negative influences, energies, or entities from one’s life.
  • Purification: They are also employed for purification rituals, cleansing spaces or objects of unwanted energies.

Ginger: Empowering and Energizing:

Ginger, the final element in the pumpkin spice blend, brings its own unique qualities to magical practices:

  • Energy and Power: Ginger is known for boosting personal power and vitality. Witches use it to infuse their spells with added energy and determination.
  • Success and Prosperity: It’s also associated with success and prosperity, making it a favored ingredient in abundance rituals.

“Pumpkin Spice Frappuccino” by llorias is licensed under CC BY 2.0.

How Witches Use Pumpkin Spice:

Witches have long appreciated the power of herbs and spices in their magical practices. Pumpkin spice, with its warm and grounding properties, is a favorite among modern witches for several reasons:

Seasonal Connection: Pumpkin spice is closely tied to the autumn season when the veil between worlds is believed to be thin. It aligns with the earthy, grounding energies of Autumn, making it an ideal addition to spells and rituals during this time.

Harmony and Balance: The spices in pumpkin spice, individually and collectively, promote balance, harmony, and warmth. Witches use it to create a harmonious atmosphere in their homes and rituals.

Transformation and Transition: Autumn is a season of change, and pumpkin spice embodies the transformative energy of this season. Witches utilise it to facilitate personal growth and navigate life’s transitions.

Connection with Ancestors: Pumpkin spice’s popularity during holidays like Samhain and Halloween also makes it a potent tool for connecting with ancestors and spirit guides.

Comfort and Hearth Magic: The warm, comforting scent of pumpkin spice can create a cozy atmosphere conducive to meditation, divination, or simply relaxing by the hearth.

Protection and Purification: Individual spices within pumpkin spice, such as cinnamon and cloves, are known for their protective and purifying qualities, making them valuable tools in warding off negative energies.

Enhancing Psychic Abilities: Nutmeg, another component of pumpkin spice, is associated with enhancing psychic abilities and intuition, making it a valuable addition to divination practices.

Further Uses For Pumpkin Spice:

Beyond its magical properties, pumpkin spice has become a beloved flavor of the Autumn season. From lattes to candles, this aromatic blend has permeated our daily lives and rituals. Here are a few lifestyle elements where pumpkin spice shines:

“Spiced Pumpkin Cake with Citrus Cream Cheese Frosting Topped with Vegan Caramel” by Vegan Feast Catering is licensed under CC BY 2.0.

  • Culinary Delights: Pumpkin spice finds its way into a wide array of dishes, from pies and muffins to soups and cookies. It’s a comforting and indulgent flavor that reminds us of the harvest season.
  • Aromatherapy: Pumpkin spice-scented candles and essential oils offer a delightful way to infuse our homes with the cozy ambiance of Autumn.
  • Self-Care Rituals: Many incorporate pumpkin spice into self-care routines, whether through homemade face masks, bath salts, or even as an ingredient in natural perfumes

Pumpkin spice, with its deep historical roots, ties to folklore, and its embrace by modern witches, has become a symbol of autumn’s magic. As you savor that pumpkin spice latte or light a pumpkin spice candle, remember the ancient wisdom and enchantment this delightful blend carries with it. Whether you’re indulging in a seasonal treat or infusing your witchcraft with its warm essence, pumpkin spice is a reminder that the magic of the season is always at hand.

Do you use or love Pumpkin spice? If so let us know below or via our social channels.

Until next time, darlings! 

Love, Ems 

@Bunnypudding (Tiktok) / @Bunnyscopes (Instagram)

Reference links:

Explore the history of spices and their significance

Learn about the folklore of autumn harvest celebrations

Discover the use of spices in witchcraft

Main Picture Credit: “Pumpkin Spice” by Theo Crazzolara is licensed under CC BY 2.0.

Witchcraft Around The World: 30th April -Walpurgis Night

Witchcraft Around The World: The fabulous Tanja, shares her insight into Walpurgis Night.

We love learning about all different type of Witchcraft here at Digital Coven and today we have the fabulous Tanja, sharing her insight into Walpurgis Night.

Take it away, Tanja!

Greetings fellow witches! You may or may not be prepping to celebrate Beltane this weekend, so I thought I would make you familiar with what I like to call its “German goth counterpart”, – Walpurgisnacht, or the Night of the Witches, which takes place on the night of the 30th of April.

About Beltane

As you may know, Beltane is the pagan festival held halfway between the spring and summer equinox, celebrating the blossoming of trees and flowers and the days getting warmer. It takes place between 30th of April and 1st of May and therefore traditionally includes May Day celebrations which span across many different cultures – Celtic, German, Hawaiian and Greek, to name a few. They include dancing around a May Pole, making flower crowns and crowning a May queen (not to be confused with the customs of Midsommar – neither the Swedish festival nor Ari Aster’s horror masterpiece).

“Children perform the Maypole Dance at the 2010 Downton Cuckoo Festival, Wiltshire” by Anguskirk is marked with CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.

The Fire Festival

Beltane, from the Gaelic Bealtaine, can be roughly translated to “bright fire”. On the eve of May 1st, Pagans would gather to light bonfires and dance around them – since fire typically stands for purification and new beginnings, this ties in with Beltane’s themes of renewal and summer returning. 

Like on Halloween (Samheim) and Midsummer, the veil between the realms of the living, dead and spirits is supposed to be especially thin this time of year. It is therefore no wonder the night became associated with witchcraft, its literal Dutch translation being “Heksennacht”, the night of the witches, which in German folklore became associated with a night where evil witches gather to plan their mischievous schemes.

“File:Edinburgh Beltane Fire Festival 2012 – Procession.JPG” by Stefan Schäfer, Lich is marked with CC BY-SA 3.0.

The History of Walpurgis Night

For this negative association, we can thank the Catholic Church – as pagan beliefs did not fit in with the Christian religious ideals, during the Middle Ages they attempted to stamp out any other religion’s customs, including those of Beltane, throughout Europe. Walpurgisnacht i.e. “Walpurgis Night” derives its name from the Catholic missionary turned Saint Walpurga, who was celebrated for succeeding at putting an end to “pagan sorcery”. 

Ironically, the image I associated with Walpurga until researching this date stems from a popular German children’s cartoon about a teenage witch – In this, she is the leader of the coven and looks like this:

Walpurgia | Bibi Blocksberg Wiki | Fandom powered by Wikia
Image Souce

As someone who grew up Catholic, that doesn’t look very pious to me, which goes to show that Walpurga today is associated way more with witches than she would have liked. Sorry, gal!

To give her credit, Walpurga actually did see to it that the pagan rituals didn’t completely die out: She was canonised on the 1st of May, and therefore, likely by accident, Christian and Pagan customs became entwined. Pagans could continue their celebrations without fear of being condemned, by doing it under the guise of honouring Saint Walpurga (article). 

So, these practices could be continued quite freely in Medieval Germany, until the 16th century, which saw a massive hysteria about witchcraft followed by one of the most gruesome and bloody witch hunts in history taking place in Germany.

During that time, hysteria led people to believe that witches would gather on Mount Brocken, the highest peak in Germany’s Harz Mountains, to have orgies, dance, and meet with Satan to discuss how they could bring the most mischief and evil to the coming year (no, really).

Ein Bild, das Text, Zeichnung enthält. Automatisch generierte Beschreibung
The actual Saint Walpurga

 

According to some legends, witches would gather in the valley and then ride up to the mountain’s peak – not just on broomsticks, but even on cats or goats!

In an attempt to protect themselves from evil spirits and witches, locals would gather on April 30th to light bonfires, burn straw men and make loud noises to chase away evil. The joyous pagan rituals for fertility and summer returning therefore morphed into a gathering driven by fear. Well done, Catholic Church!

Die Nacht, in der Hexen auf Besen reiten
“Witches going to their Sabbath” (1878) by Luis Ricardo Falero

Luckily, those superstitions began to gradually die out and Walpurgis Night celebrations carried on but became more light-hearted, as people would gather around the fire, celebrate, and sing folk songs. The festival might not still be part of the German Zeitgeist today had it not been for Goethe’s famous poem Faust, published in the 19th century, which sees the protagonist travelling to Mount Brocken and taking part in the witches’ celebrations.

This poem, loathed by German highschoolers throughout the country, re-popularised Walpurgisnacht and is likely to thank for why it is still popular today.

Modern Day celebrations

Today, Walpurgisnacht remains part of German popular culture, with many other stories about the Witches’ mountain gatherings having sprung up in the century following Goethe’s Faust.

As for the celebrations, most that remains of them is the lighting of and gathering around bonfires, although this is now being celebrated under the new motto of Tanz in den Mai – “Dance into May”. Turns out, pagans, legendary witches and normal human beings alike love a bit of revelry and dancing around a fire! Due to the first of May being a bank holiday, Labour Day, people still traditionally like to go dancing at clubs which do “Tanz in den Mai” themed nights. I have taken part in many of these club nights and regardless of alcohol levels, the night has always felt special to me. Maybe there is something to the veil between the worlds being more permeable. Or maybe I just feel very seen as a witch on this holiday which is, in a way, dedicated to us. 

Thanks, Tanja!

You can stay in touch with Tanja and find her shitposting and creating other digital content about drag, queer and witchy stuff on Instagram @tanjaktx and Tiktok @tanjatix

If you wish to write an article for Digital Coven please get in touch on our contact page or just pop an email over to us on digitalcovenuk@gmail.com or you can always reach out via our social channels:

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Until next time,

Love,

Featured Image: “File:Edinburgh Beltane Fire Festival 2012 – Bonfire.JPG” by Stefan Schäfer, Lich is marked with CC BY-SA 3.0.