The Celtic Wheel of the Year is an ancient cycle of seasonal festivals that marks the natural rhythms of the land. Rooted in pre-Christian traditions, it follows the changing light and energy of the year, honouring eight key festivals:
Samhain - Halloween (Oct 31st-Nov 1st) – End of harvest, honouring ancestors, gateway to the dark half of the year.
Winter Solstice (Dec 21st) – Longest night, rebirth of the sun, deep rest.
Imbolc (Feb 1st-2nd) – Brigid’s time, stirring of life, planting seeds of intention.
Spring Equinox (March 20th-21st) – Balance of light and dark, renewal, fertility.
Beltaine (May 1st) – Fire festival, passion, abundance, full bloom of life.
Summer Solstice (June 20th-21st) – Longest day, peak energy, celebration of light.
Lughnasadh (Aug 1st) – First harvest, gratitude, transition towards autumn.
Autumn Equinox (Sept 20th-23rd) – Balance again, slowing down, preparing for the dark.
Aligning with the Celtic Wheel helps us live more intuitively with nature’s cycles rather than forcing ourselves into rigid, modern timelines. It reminds us to honor rest, growth, release, and renewal—all essential rhythms for our physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
By working with the Wheel, we can:
Set intentions in harmony with the seasons.
Honor our energy cycles, allowing for both action and deep rest.
Connect with ancestral wisdom and the land’s natural flow.
Create rituals that bring meaning and grounding into our daily lives.
Maybe you have a practice already that honours the Celtic Wheel? I would love to hear of some of the things you do - drop me a message and I can share with others.
**above image is from a fabulous poster called the Celtic Year by Joanne McMahon and can be got in many book shops and from Bandia Publishing here in Ireland.
