Samhain: Origins, Rituals, and How to Celebrate the Witch’s New Year
As the leaves fall and the veil between worlds thins, Samhain (pronounced SAH-win) calls to us with deep magic and ancient mystery. More than the origin of Halloween, Samhain marks the Celtic New Year—a powerful time for honoring the dead, releasing the past, and stepping into the dark season with intention.
What Is Samhain?
Samhain is one of the four major Celtic fire festivals, celebrated from October 31st to November 1st, marking the end of the harvest and the start of winter. This was more than just a seasonal shift—it was the New Year and a time when the veil between the living and the dead was thinnest.
“At Samhain, the dead return, the year renews, and the old self falls away like leaves in autumn.”
The Ancient Origins of Samhain
- Old Irish roots: “summer’s end”
- Bonfires to protect communities
- Disguises to ward off spirits
- Divination practices
- Feasting with the dead
Rituals to Prepare for Samhain
Ancestor Altar
Create a sacred space with photos, candles, and offerings for departed loved ones.
Cleanse Your Space
Physically and spiritually sweep out old energy. Burn herbs or incense.
Reflect & Release
Write down what you’re letting go of and burn it in a ritual fire.
Dumb Supper
Hold a silent dinner with a place set for ancestors.
How to Celebrate Samhain in Modern Times
- Go for an autumn nature walk
- Host a Samhain ritual or fire ceremony
- Do a deep tarot reading
- Carve pumpkins with sigils or protective symbols
- Read or watch mythology (Persephone, the Morrigan, etc.)
The Spirit of Samhain
Samhain invites us to:
- Honor the past
- Embrace the dark
- Welcome transformation
This is a time of stillness, magic, and remembrance—an invitation to slow down and listen to the wisdom within.
Blessed Samhain to You
Whether you’re honoring ancestors, casting a circle, or simply lighting a candle, may your Samhain be filled with mystery, magic, and meaning.
How do you celebrate Samhain? Drop your favorite ritual or tradition in the comments below!
