Yule Altar 2025

Depending on your tradition, Yule either begins on the winter solstice or later in January. I chose to celebrate during the winter solstice, which is more in line with the celebrations of my most recent ancestors. 

Like other blóts, Yule traditionally included a sacrifice, along with feasting, toasts, and general celebration. Historically, these feasts lasted three days and often included gift exchanges and oath-making, which helped forge deep community bonds. Unlike other cultures' festivals that centered mostly on the returning sun, Yule generally focused more on community building and celebration. Surviving the harsh winter months required everyone to lend a helping hand, and those in need heavily relied on their communities to get through. This does not mean, however, that the end of winter and the return of summer were not cause for celebration. The lighting of bonfires, hearths, and candles, traditions that carried over into today, is a testimony to the importance of the sun.

In the darkness, myths arose as to what was happening just beyond human sight, leading to such tales of the Wild Hunt, the Yule witch and her lads, the Yule cat, and even Krampus. On the longest night of the year, people could be found indoors around large fires, keeping the cold and the darkness at bay. And while these myths and legends strike fear into one's heart, Yule is also a time of hope. After the solstice, the days begin to lengthen, reminding us that it's always darkest before the dawn.

With these symbols and historical traditions in mind, I created this year's Yule altar. You may notice it is in a different location this year. I am currently renovating several rooms in my home, and right now my altar is in my bedroom. It made for some lovely pictures, albeit different. 

1. Goat Skull- Goats are associated with fertility, virility, and lust (all themes associated with Yule), as well as independence, ambition, and persistence. Even against all odds, goats will give everything they have, reminding us to persevere even in the face of darkness. In Sweden, large straw goats, known as Yule goats or Julbock, are built on the first day of Advent. This may be a nod to Thor, whose chariot was pulled by two goats, or possibly the remnants of an old harvest tradition. Either way, the Yule goat has become a symbol of Yule in many Scandinavian countries and is said to watch over holiday preparations and even bring gifts, much like Santa. (Where did I get it: Gifted; Cost: Free)

2. White Candles- Candles, bonfires, and hearth fires were traditionally lit to protect those within on the Winter Solstice from dangerous spirits and the Wild Hunt. Sympathetically, the lighting of a fire was thought to promote the return of the Sun, as like attracts like. For this reason, I have placed two white candles, which represent the sun, purity, and renewal, on my altar.  (Where did I get it: Candles- Dollar Tree; Cost: $1, Candle Holders- Goodwill; Cost: $3)

3. Bottle Brush Tree Lights- I am absolutely obsessed with bottle brush trees, with almost 200 in my collection. In 2023, I managed to score these beautiful bottlebrush tree lights in the checkout line from Home Goods. I knew immediately that I wanted to use them to adorn my altar each Yule. They combine two traditional Yule themes: the evergreen tree and lights. Evergreens represent immortality, fertility, and protection, and were often brought into the home and decorated with candles, lights, and shiny objects to bring joy to those within while also warding away ghosts, witches, and other evil spirits during the Winter Solstice. The snowy scene within is also associated with purity and new beginnings, while the light represents the Sun, which is reborn during Yule. (Where did I get it: Home Goods 2023; Cost: $10)

4. Dagaz, Wunjo, and Mannaz Runes- Since this is a Nordic holiday, no altar would be complete without some runes. Dagaz means "day" or "dawn." It is a symbol of awaking, clarity, and new beginnings. It represents the transition from darkness into light and the ending of one cycle, so a new one may begin. This is exactly what Yule is: a transition from darkness into light. Wunjo, like Dagaz, is a symbol of hope. It is representative of harmony and happiness, as well as companionship and fulfillment, central themes of Yule. Finally, you can't have a Yule altar without Mannaz, which represents community and kinship. (Where did I get it: Won; Cost: Free)

5. Red Agate, Bloodstone, and Tree Agate- Bloodstone was known as heliotrope by the Ancients, which comes from the Greek helios, meaning "sun" and trepein, meaning "to attract." As such, bloodstone or heliotrope signifies "sun-turning" and is said to attract the rays of the Sun. Like the candles, this is a form of sympathetic magic to bring forth the rebirth of the Sun and ward off the never-ending night. Like bloodstone, red agate is a symbol of fire and light. It is traditionally associated with strength, courage, and vitality, characteristics needed to survive long, cold winter nights. Tree agate, on the other hand, represents harmony, peace, strength, and stability. While it is traditionally considered a gardening stone, the dark, earthy green against milkwhite reminds me of evergreen trees in a snowy landscape, making them perfect for Yule. (Where did I get it: Various Subscription Boxes and Gifted; Cost: ~$3)

6. Evergreen Greenery and Wooden Acorns- Nestled around the goat skill is evergreen greenery, which is a traditional symbol of Yule, everlasting life, regeneration, vitality, and protection. Unlike deciduous trees that lose their leaves during the winter months, evergreen trees keep their leaves, remaining perpetually green and full of life, even during the darkest and coldest time of the year. Boughs of evergreen were commonly hung above doorways and placed on altars to prevent evil from entering the home, especially on the longest night of the year. It was also believed that such greenery would promote health and wellness by warding away sickness. This may have something to do with the natural scent of pine and other evergreen plants, or the antiseptic nature of the tree's sap. Among this greenery are wooden acorns, representative of strength, protection, and resilience. This juxtaposition of evergreen with deciduous trees symbolizes that, despite the darkness, the sun will return and with it life. (Where did I get it: Target 2016 and Gifted; Cost: $5/Free)

TOTAL COST: ~$21

Like my other altars, most of the items I use are found, made, or purchased for around $1, although if the items must be purchased by you, then the cost will be higher. This altar is more expensive than some of my previous altars because I wanted to include some new items I purchased this year. I hope you find this sort of breakdown helpful, especially for those of you looking to create Instagram-perfect altars on a budget!

I hope everyone has a blessed winter solstice full of good food, good cheer, and community. May your home experience nothing but light in the darkness.

If you liked this post, please consider leaving a small tip in the jar. 

Yule/Winter Solstice Altar 2023

Yes, I know this post is incredibly late, but if you follow me on Instagram, you know why. Between having to administer end-of-semester finals and state testing, dental surgery (which went incredibly well, by the way), the holidays, traveling, and getting engaged, the last thing I have had time for recently is blogging, or anything exceptionally witchy. Heck, we didn't even exchange gifts this year! Yule and Christmas felt a bit off without the gift exchange, but we just couldn't justify spending money on items we didn't really need when we knew we would be traveling. Besides, I think my engagement ring is the best gift I could have ever received. I haven't talked about my now fiancé on my blog, but just know he is an absolute treasure, and I am so thankful I found my person. But I digress!

Despite being busy, I did set up a simple Yule altar using some of my favorite items and some new ones as well. The Winter Solstice is the shortest day of the year, marking the final day of lasting darkness and the return of the Sun. The Winter Solstice has been celebrated by a variety of cultures for thousands of years as it marked an important transition in the Wheel of the Year. With it being the longest night, folklore sprung up around what happened in the dark, the most prominent of these European myths being the Wild Hunt. Candles were lit to drive away the darkness, keep out the demons, and encourage the Sun's return so that life would flourish once more. And in the darkness, a god was born. Depending on the tradition, this included such deities as Horus, Dionysus, Apollo, and the infamous Oak King. With these themes in mind, I created this year's Yule altar to brighten my spirits and bring prosperity and light into the new year.

1. Goat Skull- Goats are associated with fertility, virility, and lust (all themes associated with Yule), as well as independence, ambition, and persistence. Even against all odds, goats will give everything they have, reminding us to persevere even in the face of darkness. Goats also represent the Horned God who is reborn on the solstice. In Sweden, large straw goats, known as Yule goats or Julbock, are built on the first day of Advent. This may be a nod to Thor, whose chariot was pulled by two goats, or possibly the remnants of an old harvest tradition. Either way, the Yule goat has become a symbol of Yule in many Scandinavian countries and is said to watch over holiday preparations and even bring gifts, much like Santa. (Where did I get it: Gifted; Cost: Free)

2. Evergreen Greenery- Nestled around the goat skill is evergreen greenery, which is a traditional symbol of Yule, representing the Holly King, everlasting life, regeneration, vitality, and protection. Unlike deciduous trees that lose their leaves during the winter months, evergreen trees keep their leaves, remaining perpetually green and full of life, even during the darkest, coldest time of the year. Boughs of evergreen were commonly hung above doorways and placed on altars to prevent evil from entering the home, especially on the longest night of the year. It was also believed such greenery would promote health and wellness by warding away sickness. This may have something to do with the natural scent of pine and other evergreen plants, or the antiseptic nature of the tree's sap. (Where did I get it: Target 2016; Cost: $5)

3. Bottle Brush Tree Lights- For those of you who don't know, I am absolutely obsessed with bottle brush trees. My current collection numbers well over 100 and when I saw these battery-powered lights in the checkout line at Home Goods, I knew I needed them in my life. Each light contains a miniature bottle brush tree, representing immortality, fertility, and protection. Evergreen trees were often brought into the home and decorated with candles, lights, and shiny objects to bring joy to those within while also warding away ghosts, witches, and other evil spirits during the Winter Solstice. The snowy scene within is also associated with purity and new beginnings, while the light represents the Sun who is reborn during Yule. (Where did I get it: Home Goods 2023; Cost: $10)

4. Bloodstone and Orange Calcite- Bloodstone was known as heliotrope by the Ancients which comes from the Greek helios meaning "sun" and trepein meaning "to attract." As such, bloodstone or heliotrope signifies "sun-turning" and is said to attract the rays of the Sun. Like the candles, this is a form of sympathetic magic to bring forth the rebirth of the Sun and ward off the neverending night. Orange calcite, on the other hand, encourages personal power, enhances creativity, and increases positivity. It's most commonly used to dispel depression, which is extremely common this time of year due to the lack of sunlight. (Where did I get it: Various Subscription Boxes and Gifted; Cost: ~$3)

5. White Candles & Green Candle Sticks- The ward off the darkness, candles were lit to protect those within on the Winter Solstice from dangerous spirits and the Wild Hunt while simultaneously ushering in the return of the Sun. For this reason, I have placed two white candles, which represent the Sun, purity, and renewal, on my altar. Furthermore, the Sun is reborn on the Winter Solstice, the candles being an offering to His return. I went with green candle holders, a common color associated with Yule, to promote health, fertility, growth, abundance, and the Holly King. (Where did I get it: Candles- Dollar Tree; Cost: $1, Candle Holders- Home Goods 2023; Cost: $16, $8 each)

6. Wooden Acorns- One of my favorite myths is the tale of the Oak and Holly Kings. The Holly King is at his peak during the Winter Solstice, but his power begins to weaken as the Oak King, who is reborn on the Winter Solstice, regains power. The two wooden acorns flanking each side of my altar are an ode to the Oak King. They also represent strength, new life, and rebirth, a promise of what is to come once the darkness passes. Oaks are well known for their protective nature, which is needed on the longest night of the year. The acorns not only represent the Oak King and the strength He provides but also provide my home with protection from wayward spirits and the Wild Hunt. (Where did I get it: Gifted; Cost: Free)

TOTAL COST: ~$35

Like my other altars, most of the items I use are found, made, or purchased for around $1, although if the items must be purchased by you, then the cost will be higher. This altar is more expensive than some of my previous altars because I wanted to include some new items I purchased this year. I hope you find this sort of breakdown helpful, especially for those of you looking to create Instagram-perfect altars on a budget!

To each and every one of you, I hope you had a wonderful Winter Solstice, a festive Yule, and a happy New Year!

If you liked this post and would like to support future content, please consider leaving a small tip in the jar. 

Yule/Winter Solstice Altar 2022

Yuletide blessings, witches! I hope your Yule is filled with merriment and light. I started decorating for Yule much earlier this year than I ever have before, wishing to spend more time with the festive lights and decorations. In fact, I started purchasing more decorations at the beginning of October. Blasphemy as a witch, I know, but I needed it. In fact, I didn't even celebrate Samhain this year. Things just felt...off. The Yule begins on the Winter Solstice (December 212, 2022) and ends on January 1, 2021. The Winter Solstice is the shortest day of the year, marking the final day of lasting darkness and the return of the Sun. The Winter Solstice has been celebrated by a variety of cultures for thousands of years as it marked an important transition in the Wheel of the Year. With it being the longest night, folklore sprung up around what happened in the dark, the most prominent of these European myths being the Wild Hunt. Candles were lit to drive away the darkness, keep out the demons, and encourage the Sun's return so that life would flourish once more. And in the darkness, a god was born. Depending on the tradition, this included such deities as Horus, Dionysus, Apollo, and the infamous Oak King. With these themes in mind, I created this year's Yule altar to brighten my spirits and bring prosperity and light into the new year.

1. Evergreen Tree- Nestled behind the goat skill is an evergreen tree, which is a traditional symbol of Yule. It represents everlasting life and light in the darkness. Unlike deciduous trees that lose their leaves during the winter months, evergreen trees keep their leaves, remaining perpetually green and full of life, even during the darkest, coldest time of the year. These lovely trees were often brought into the home, whether whole or just clippings, and decorated with candles and shiny decorations to keep away witches, ghosts, evil spirits, and illness while shepherding in warmer weather. (Where did I get it: Michael's 2012; Cost: $5)

2. White Candles & Lights- The ward off the darkness, candles were lit to protect those within on the Winter Solstice from dangerous spirits and the Wild Hunt while simultaneously ushering in the return of the Sun. For this reason, I have placed a number of white candles, which represent the Sun, purity, and renewal, on my altar. The white votive candles also smell of vanilla, an uplifting scent to keep spirits high despite the darkness. Furthermore, the Sun is reborn on the Winter Solstice, the candles being an offering to His return. (Where did I get it: Dollar Tree; Cost: $6, $1 each)

3. Evergreen Garland- The evergreen branches, which came from a garland I had years ago, represent the Holly King, everlasting life, and protection. Boughs of evergreen were commonly hung above doorways and placed on altars to prevent evil from entering the home, especially on the longest night of the year.  (Where did I get it: Target 2016; Cost: $5)

4. Garnet and Pyrite- Bloodstone was known as heliotrope by the Ancients which comes from the Greek helios meaning "sun" and trepein meaning "to attract." As such, bloodstone or heliotrope signifies "sun-turning" and is said to attract the rays of the Sun. Like the candles, this is a form of sympathetic magic to bring forth the rebirth of the Sun and ward off the neverending night. The pyrite, like the bloodstone, also represents the Sun, reflecting the rays of the candles out into the Universe to lend Him strength. Pyrite is also a symbol of wealth and prosperity, ensuring that we have everything we need to make it through the next couple of months until Spring. (Where did I get it: Various Subscription Boxes and Metaphysical Stores; Cost: ~$5)

5. Jera, Sowilo, and Wunjo Runes- Each of these runes has unique symbolism that adds to the magic of the altar as a whole. Jera means "year" and represents the turning of the Wheel. It is cyclical in nature and encourages us to reflect upon what we send out into the Universe as what goes around comes around. It lets us know that despite the darkness, the light will return. Sowilo is the rune of the Sun, light, and success. It helps light the way into a bright future. Finally, Wunjo is the rune of joy and good company, a celebration of love and community. The Winter Solstice is best spent with family and friends and reminds us that joy overcomes even the darkest of times. (Blagowood; Cost: Won/Free; originally- $30 for the set)

6. Wooden Acorns- One of my favorite myths is the tale of the Oak and Holly Kings. The Holly King is at his peak during the Winter Solstice, but his power begins to weaken as the Oak King, who is reborn on the Winter Solstice, regains power. The two wooden acorns flanking each side of my altar are an ode to the Oak King. They also represent strength, new life, and rebirth, a promise of what is to come once the darkness passes. Oaks are well known for their protective nature, which is needed on the longest night of the year. The acorns not only represent the Oak King and the strength He provides, but also provide my home with protection from wayward spirits and the Wild Hunt. (Where did I get it: Gifted; Cost: Free)

7. Goat Skull- I have to give a huge thanks to my friend, Abby, who so graciously gifted me with this lovely goat skull earlier this year. It is certainly one of the best gifts I have ever received and I was so excited to place it on my altar. Goats are associated with fertility, virility, and lust (all themes associated with Yule), as well as independence, ambition, and persistence. Even against all odds, goats will give everything they have, reminding us to persevere even in the face of darkness. Goats also represent the Horned God who is reborn on the solstice. In Sweden, large straw goats, known as Yule goats or Julbock, are built on the first day of Advent. This may be a nod to Thor, whose chariot was pulled by two goats, or possibly the remnants of an old harvest tradition. Either way, the Yule goat has become a symbol of Yule in many Scandinavian countries and is said to watch over holiday preparations and even bring gifts, much like Santa. (Where did I get it: Gifted; Cost: Free)

TOTAL COST: ~$16

Like my other altars, most of the items I use are found, made, or purchased for around $1, although if the items must be purchased by you, then the cost will be higher. For this particular altar, many of the items were gifts, thus reducing my cost significantly. I hope you find this sort of breakdown helpful, especially for those of you looking to create Instagram-perfect altars on a budget!

To each and every one of you, I hope you have a wonderful Winter Solstice and a festive Yule. 

If you liked this post and would like to support future content, please consider leaving a small tip in the jar. 

Yule Altar 2020

Yuletide blessings, witches! I hope your Yule is filled with merriment and light, despite the pandemic. I started decorating for Yule much earlier this year, wishing to spend more time with the festive lights and decorations. I think we could all use a little more Yule this year. In fact, if I didn't love Samhain as well, I probably would have decorated for Yule at the beginning of October. Haha! It's just been one of those years, am I right? Yule begins on the Winter Solstice (December 22, 2020) and ends on January 1, 2021. The Winter Solstice is the shortest day of the year, marking the final day of lasting darkness and the return of the Sun. The Winter Solstice has been celebrated by a variety of cultures for thousands of years as it marked an important transition in the Wheel of the Year. With it being the longest night, folklore sprung up around what happened in the dark, the most prominent of these European myths being the Wild Hunt. Candles were lit to drive away the darkness, keep out the demons, and encourage the Sun's return so that life would flourish once more. And in the darkness, a god was born. Depending on the tradition, this included such deities as Horus, Dionysus, Apollo, and the infamous Oak King. With these themes in mind, I created this year's Yule altar to bright my room and my spirits, in hopes that 2021 offers fairer waters.

1. Wooden Acorns- One of my favorite myths is the tale of the Oak and Holly Kings. The Holly King is at his peak during the Winter Solstice, but his power begins to weaken as the Oak King, who is reborn on the Winter Solstice, regains power. The two wooden acorns flanking either side of my altar are an ode to the Oak King. They also represent strength, new life, and rebirth, a promise of what is to come once the darkness passes. Oaks are well known for the protective nature, which is needed on the longest night of the year. The acorns not only represent the Oak King and the strength He provides, but also provide my home with protection from wayward spirits and the Wild Hunt. (Where did I get it: Gifted; Cost: Free)

2. White Candles & Lights- The ward off the darkness, candles were lit to protect those within on the Winter Solstice from dangerous spirits and the Wild Hunt while simultaneously ushering in the return of the Sun. For this reason, I have placed a number of white candles, which represent the Sun, purity, and renewal, on my altar. The white votive candles also smell of vanilla, an uplifting scent to keep spirits high despite the darkness. Furthermore, the Sun is reborn on the Winter Solstice, the candles being an offering to His return. (Where did I get it: Dollar Tree; Cost: $6, $1 each)

3. Garnet and Bloodstone- Bloodstone was known as heliotrope by the Ancients which comes from the Greek helios meaning "sun" and trepein meaning "to attract." As such, bloodstone or heliotrope signifies "sun-turning" and is said to attract the rays of the Sun. Like the candles, this is a form of sympathetic magic to bring forth the rebirth of the Sun and ward off the neverending night. The garnet, on the other hand, represents the primordial fire of creation which will bring about the rebirth of the Sun and with it will come Spring and new life. (Where did I get it: Various Subscription Boxes and Metaphysical Stores; Cost: ~$5)

4. King of Earth Tarot Card- The King of Earth tarot card from the Dreams of Gaia deck is a combination of the Oak and Holly Kings, representing their endless cycle of birth and death as they battle for power each year. Despite the Earth being dormant during these cold months, it is not dead. Nature and life still abound, sleeping quietly, awaiting the return of the Sun. This card represents the slumbering life, a promise that the Wheel will continue to turn and the Earth will be plentiful once more. (Where did I get it: Amazon Dreams of Gaia Tarot Deck; Cost: $0.25; full deck $29)

5. Antler- The antler circling the King of Earth represents regrowth and rebirth, as deer routinely shed their antlers each year to replace them with new ones. It is also an ode to the Wild Hunt, which occurs during the solstice. Furthermore, deer are spirit messengers who are able to walk between worlds the world freely, thus the antler represents the spirits of the season and communication with them. After the solstice, the days begin to lengthen and the Earth is reborn, just as the deer regrow their antlers each year. (Where did I get it: Found; Cost: Free)

6. Evergreen Garland and Berries- The evergreen branches, which came from a garland I had from years ago, represents the Holly King, everlasting life, and protection. Boughs of evergreen were commonly hung above doorways and placed on altars to prevent evil from entering the home, especially on the longest night of the year. The red holly berries also are a tribute to the Holly King, but also to represent blood, as the Holly King begins to die after the solstice and the Oak King is reborn. The ever-present cycle of birth and death is represented by the evergreen branches being intertwined together. (Where did I get it: Target 2016; Cost: $5)

TOTAL COST: ~$16.25

Like my other altars, most of the items I use are found, made, or purchased for around $1, although if the items must be purchased by you, then the cost will be higher. I hope you find this sort of break down helpful, especially those of you looking to create Instagram perfect altars on a budget!

Apart from my altar, I wanted to share some decorations around my house with you as well in hopes of livening your feeds and your life. 

To each and every one of you, I hope you have a wonderful Winter Solstice and a festive Yule. Celebrate with care so that we may share many more in the future. Stay safe, my friends.

If you liked this post and would like to support future content, please consider leaving a small tip in the jar. 

Yule Altar 2019

Yule is definitely one of my favorite holidays of the year. Being the shortest day of the year, it reminds us to look within ourselves and reflect upon our lives. It is also a great time to communicate with spirits and the Wild Hunt often takes place during this time. Furthermore, Yule is characterized by rebirth, new beginnings, and hope. Despite it being the shortest day of the year, it reminds us that light will come again and the Sun will be reborn. This year's altar reflects all of these themes, from the Wild Hunt to rebirth.

1. Candles- This altar is covered in candles symbolizing the rebirth of the Sun. Furthermore, they represent sympathetic magic, the idea that by lighting the candles to symbolize the Sun and returning warmth, that the Sun will arrive quickly the next morning and continue to grow in strength through the Spring and Summer. Being white, the candles represent purity and a clean slate in preparation for the New Year. Yule is a time to reflect and begin anew. (Where did I get it: Dollar Tree (2018-2019); Cost: $1 for each candle holder and $1 for all the candles)

2. Rose of Jericho- The Rose of Jericho, also referred to as resurrection fern, is the perfect addition to any Yule altar as Yule is the time the Sun is reborn. In Christianity, this is represented by the birth of Jesus, while other religions also see the birth of a God of Goddess occurring at this time as well. The Rose of Jericho symbolizes this rebirth and renewal symbolic of this sabbat. (Where did I get it: House of Rituals Subscription Box; Cost: $12)

3. Yule Tree- No Yule altar is complete without the Yule tree. This evergreen tree represents life during death, that despite how bleak and terrible things may seem, there is still hope that life will return and Spring will come again. (Where did I get it: Michael's Craft Store 2015; Cost: $4)

4. Pearls, Bloodstone, and Garnet- Pearls, bloodstone, and garnet are all traditional stones of Yule. The pearls represent the Moon, which dominates on the longest night of the year. They also represent purity, love, and protection. Spirits abound on this night, having extra time to roam our plane of existence. Pearls offer up their protection this night in the loving embrace of the Moon. Bloodstone, on the other hand, was known as heliotrope by the Ancients which comes from the Greek helios meaning "sun" and trepein meaning "to attract." As such, bloodstone or heliotrope signifies "sun-turning" and is said to attract the rays of the Sun. Again, this is a form of sympathetic magic to bring forth the rebirth of the Sun and ward off the neverending night. Finally, garnet represents the primordial fire of creation which will bring about the rebirth of the Sun and with it will come Spring and new life. (Where did I get it: Various Subscription Boxes and Metaphysical Stores; Cost: ~$6)

5. Fox Skull- Once again I have my fox skull on my altar, representing the spirits roaming the Earth during the Winter Solstice. Furthermore, the skull represents the Wild Hunt, a ghostly group of supernatural beings in wild pursuit. Witnesses to the Wild Hunt are said to die or be taken to the Underworld. The skull is a nod to this folklore tradition and a form of protection from the Hunt, lest we be pulled into its pursuit.  (Where did I get it: Gifted; Cost: Free or available on Etsy for $30)

TOTAL COST: ~$28-58

Like my other altars, most of the items I use are found or purchased for around $1, although if the items must be purchased by you, then the cost may be higher. I hope you find this sort of break down helpful, especially those of you looking to create Instagram perfect altars on a budget! There is no reason your altars have to cost a fortune, so why not save some money and use what you may already have? This altar is on the more expensive side, but I didn't have to purchase anything new to create it. I like to use items I already have or find in nature, so while at first it looks expensive, it actually cost me very little in the long run.

How did you celebrate Yule this year? Let me know in the comments below. I took a trip to Asheville and celebrated with a ghost tour, a visit to the Biltmore Estate, a hike to Catawba Falls, and some really good food and cheer. It was just what I needed to recuperate!

Yule Altar 2018

Happy Yule, ya' filthy pagans! A couple nights ago I put together my Yule altar using some items found around my home. When possible, I prefer living decorations over fake ones. Just feels more witchy to me. For this altar, I chose a skull, antler, pyrite, white candles, a bell, and some fir and berry garland mixed with Christmas lights to celebrate the season. Furthermore, I chose white, green, red, and gold tones to pull the altar together and represent the season.

1. White Candles with candlesticks- The white candles represent the  Sun who is reborn at Yule. White also represents purity and protection, warding off negativity and evil and ensuring a safe winter. As Yule is the longest night of the year, candles, Yule logs, and other lights are commonly lit for protection against evil spirits that may wish harm on the inhabitants of the house. (Where did I get it: Dollar Tree; Cost: $1 for 2 candles, candlesticks $1 each)

2. Evergreen Branches and Berries- The evergreen branches were cut from one of the few evergreen trees in my yard to represent the Holly King, everlasting life, and protection. Boughs of evergreen were commonly hung above doorways and placed on altars to prevent evil from entering the home, especially on the longest night of the year. The red holly berries also are a tribute to the Holly King, but also to represent blood, as the Holly King begins to die after the solstice and the Oak King is reborn. The ever-present cycle of birth and death is represented by the evergreen branches being intertwined together.  (Where did I get it: Branches Found & Berries purchased; Cost: $5)

3. Golden Bell- A common practice this time of year is the ringing in the new day after the solstice, thus ushering the Sun back to life. The golden bell symbolizes this tradition to "ring in" the "New Year." (Where did I get it: From September's House of Rituals Subscription Box; Cost: Estimated $2) 

4. Antler- The antler circling the coyote/dog skull represents regrowth/rebirth, as deer routinely shed their antlers each year to replace them with new ones, as well as the Wild Hunt, which occurs during the solstice. Furthermore, deer are spirit messengers who are able to walk between worlds the world freely, thus the antler represents the spirits of the season and communication with them. After the solstice, the days begin to lengthen and the Earth is reborn, just as the deer regrow their antlers each year.  (Where did I get it: Found; Cost: $0) 

5. Coyote/Dog Skulls- I love decorating with skulls, and Yule is no exception. This particular skull is of a coyote or dog, representing cunning and resilience, traits needed to survive long, dark winter nights when food scarce and temperatures drop below freezing.  (Where did I get it: Found; Cost: $0) 

6. Pyrite- Being gold, a common color associated with Yule, pyrite represents wealth, stamina, and health. Furthermore, pyrite is a crystal of the Sun and fire, representing the rebirth of the Sun after the longest night of the year. As winter continues, pyrite ensures those within will survive the season and have continued prosperity during the new year. (Where did I get it: Purchased or Subscription Box (?); Cost: $2) 

7. Wooden Acorns- While the Holly King is at his most powerful on Yule, this strength begins to wane and make way for the Oak King to reign once more. I placed two wooden acorns on either side of my altar to represent the return of the Oak King in the upcoming months, as well as to symbolize strength and protection to make it through the cold nights ahead. (Where did I get it: Gifted; $0)

TOTAL COST: ~$12

Like my other altars, most of the items I use are found or purchased for around $1, although if the items must be purchased by you, then the cost will be higher. I hope you find this sort of break down helpful, especially those of you looking to create Instagram perfect altars on a budget!

How did you celebrate Yule this year?