Lughnasadh

Lughnasadh (Lammas) (LOO-nah-sah (lam-mas))

Lughnasadh is one of Wicca’s eight sabbats during the year and always takes place on either July 31 or August 1. It represents the beginning of the harvest. Wiccans see the sabbats as changing relationships between the God and Goddess, with the death of the Goddess occurring during Lughnasadh, as the God Lugh is hosting her funeral games. As Autumn goes on, God will become weaker and weaker. An alternate view of Lughnasadh is that the Goddess is mourning his coming passing. Lughnasadh is sometimes overlooked due to a change in lifestyle from the traditional harvest schedule; however, it is still one of the four significant sabbats in Wicca.

Common Practices

Observers may participate in feats of strength honoring Lugh. They may also practice skills or reflect on the harvest. Many will bake bread, create a harvest altar, and hold a ritual to welcome the harvest. Believers create a sacred space outdoors, with leaders walking around an area and chanting while sprinkling the area with water and salt, which are believed to be spiritually cleansing. Representatives of elements such as earth, air, fire, and water are carried around the circle. At the same time, participants imagine a sphere of light and invite spirits associated with the cardinal directions into it. They often recite a poem to invite the harvest in.

Community Considerations

Do not schedule important events or activities, especially at night. Expect that observers will not attend meetings or communicate.

Lughnasadh

Lughnasadh (Lammas) (LOO-nah-sah (lam-mas))

Common Practices

Community Considerations

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