Winter Solstice and Christmas Traditions
I am pagan at heart, and I love the echoes of the old traditions during this time of year. The history of Christmas is a tapestry woven from different cultural threads. Long before Christianity, many cultures celebrated festivals during the Winter Solstice. During the holiday season, take time to reconnect with the ancient links between this time of year and nature, and rediscover the real spirit of Christmas.
The Roman festival of Saturnalia, celebrated around December 25th, honored Saturn, the god of agriculture. During this time, social norms were briefly flipped, and revelers feasted, exchanged gifts, and celebrated joyfully — possibly a precursor to many modern Christmas traditions.In Northern Europe, the Norse celebrated Yule, a festival marking the Winter Solstice with twelve days of festivities. Yule logs were burned to symbolize the return of the Sun’s light and warmth, while evergreen trees decorated homes as a sign of life amid the barren winter landscape. Even as modern Christmas has evolved, traces of these nature-based traditions still remain, maintaining a bond with the natural world during the holiday season.
In today’s modern world, reconnecting with nature during the holiday season can still hold deep significance. Decorating a tree, caroling, and outdoor celebrations help maintain the connection between contemporary Christmas traditions and nature.
Although rooted in Christianity, Christmas blends various traditions that celebrate life’s resilience, the return of light, and humanity’s connection with nature. Understanding these origins deepens appreciation for the season and encourages more eco-friendly, nature-centered celebrations. This Christmas, embark on a journey to reconnect with the outdoors. Appreciate the beauty of the natural world, cherish its gifts, and tread lightly on the Earth. Let this season be about finding comfort in nature’s beauty and tranquility, and strengthening bonds with one another and with the world around us. Happy Holidays!
Nancy Englund
2026-2026 President