Yule, Brightening the Dark

Yule, Brightening the Dark

Saturday, December 9 · 4 – 6:30pm

In our final Yuletide gathering, we’ll delve into the pagan origins of Christmas, then enjoy crafting and baked goods!

Join us for Yule, Brightening the Dark!

Let us gather to explore how those in pre-Christian Europe marked the darkest depths of winter with light, festivals, and rituals. Who celebrated Yule and why? Were reindeer ever involved? What’s the deal with the Yule Log and… goat? And where did this figure of Father Christmas and his shadow, Krampus, come from? Some of the answers may surprise you! Find out on this journey through the pagan tapestry of history and folklore, much of which is still thriving in our modern celebrations.

For centuries, cultures have celebrated the winter solstice for it heralded the rebirth of the sun and assured the promise of warmer days, more light, and a new growing season. Marking this celestial event with ritual and celebration in the northern hemisphere may be as old as humankind. These 2 Yuletide gatherings are designed to offer as much breadth and depth to the season as possible.

Tickets

Your presenter is local “wild authoress,” Kellie (K.M.) Rice. Her talk will offer insight and context for many traditions whose echoes survive in our modern Christmas and Wintertide celebrations.