As an expert in the field of comparative religions and cultural studies, I have a deep understanding of various belief systems, including Wicca, a modern pagan, witchcraft religion that has roots in pre-Christian, Indo-European traditions. Wicca is a diverse and eclectic practice with no central authority, which means that different traditions and individuals within Wicca may celebrate their holidays or "Sabbats" in slightly different ways. However, there are eight major holidays that are widely recognized and celebrated within Wiccan traditions. These holidays are often tied to the cycles of the moon and the seasons of the year, reflecting the Wiccan reverence for the natural world.

The Eight Wiccan Holidays:


1. Yule: Celebrated around December 20-23, Yule is one of the most significant holidays in Wiccan practice. It marks the Winter Solstice, the shortest day of the year, and celebrates the rebirth of the Sun God. Traditionally, it involves lighting the Yule log, decorating with evergreens, and feasting.


2. Imbolc: Falling on February 1 or 2, Imbolc is a festival of the first signs of spring. It is also associated with the Celtic goddess Brigid and is a time for purification and renewal. It is sometimes referred to as Candlemas, a Christian holiday that coincides with Imbolc.


3. Ostara: Occurring around March 20-23, Ostara is the Spring Equinox, when day and night are of equal length. It is a time of balance and fertility, often associated with the goddess Eostre or Eostar, from whom the holiday gets its name.


4. Beltane: Celebrated on April 30 or May 1, Beltane marks the beginning of summer and is associated with the Celtic festival of Beltaine. It is a time of passion and fertility, with bonfires and maypole dancing being common rituals.


5. Litha: Also known as Midsummer, Litha is observed around June 20-22. It is the Summer Solstice, the longest day of the year, and is a time of maximum sunlight and life-affirming energy.


6. Lughnasadh: Celebrated on August 1 or 2, Lughnasadh is a harvest festival named after the Celtic god Lugh. It is a time to give thanks for the first harvest and to prepare for the coming autumn.

7.
Mabon: Occurring around September 21-23, Mabon is the Autumn Equinox, a time of balance and reflection. It is a harvest festival that celebrates the second harvest of the year.

8.
Samhain: Celebrated on October 31 or November 1, Samhain is one of the most important holidays in Wicca. It marks the beginning of the dark half of the year and is associated with the Celtic festival of the dead. It is a time for honoring ancestors and the spirits of the departed.

These holidays are not just about celebrating the cycles of nature but also serve as a way for Wiccans to connect with their spirituality, community, and the divine. Each holiday has its own unique rituals, symbols, and meanings, which can vary from tradition to tradition and from practitioner to practitioner.

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Most Wiccans celebrate these eight Sabbats annually:Yule, Winter Solstice: December 20, 21, 22, or 23. ... Brigid, Imbolc, Candlemas, Imbolg, or Brigid's Day: February 1 or 2. ... Eostar, Spring Equinox, Ostara, or Oestarra: March 20, 21, 22, or 23. ... Beltane, May Eve, Beltaine, Bealtaine, or May Day: April 30 or May 1.More items...read more >>