Today is the Winter solstice, which is the longest night of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. Also referred to as "Yule," it is an ancient winter festival with deep roots in Germanic cultures, originating thousands of years ago. It was traditionally celebrated around the winter solstice.

The festival`s name derives from the Old Norse "jól" and Old English "geol," both referring to a midwinter celebration. Yule was closely associated with the god Odin, who was also known as Jolnir. The celebration focused on themes of fire, light, and feasting, often featuring roasted meats due to the practice of thinning livestock in colder months.

Yule held great religious importance in Germanic paganism. It was connected to the Wild Hunt, the veneration of ancestors, and increased supernatural activity. The festival involved various traditions, including the Yule log, Yule goat, and Yule boar, which may have pre-Christian origins.

As Christianity spread across Europe, Yule began to merge with Christian traditions.
– By the 9th century, "Yule" became synonymous with Christmas in many languages.
– During the Early Middle Ages (5th to 10th century), pagan Yule rituals gradually blended with Christian narratives.
– In the High and Late Middle Ages (11th to 15th century), Yule traditions were increasingly reinterpreted through a Christian lens, though many pagan aspects persisted.

Today, Yule is celebrated by Neo-Pagans and adherents of Modern Germanic paganism, often as a separate observance from Christmas.

There is an archaeological site in Germany known as the Goseck Circle. It is significant to the winter solstice due to its precise alignment with the sunrise and sunset on this day, marking it as one of the oldest known solar observatories, dating back to around 4900 BCE. This alignment indicates that the winter solstice held considerable importance for the Neolithic people, likely serving religious or ceremonial purposes. Overall, Goseck Circle exemplifies the sophisticated astronomical knowledge of prehistoric societies and their deep connection to celestial events. …

We are here! Christkindlmarkt is still on. We have indoor vendors and a heated tent outdoors. Come get some delicious food and glühwein to warm up 🔥 …

Meet our vendors at Christkindlmarkt!

Mi Bella Resin will have resin keychains, decor, trinket boxes, & more. With a large variety of designs and colors, these make great small gifts or stocking stuffers!

Join us Saturday December 14th from 10 am – 6 pm to shop all of our wonderful vendors, purchase German food, enjoy various music throughout the day featuring Die Musikmeisters from 2-6 pm. Santa will be available for photos from 11-2, and free admission all day. Stay warm in our big tent, grab a glass of Glühwein, Bier, or Heiße Schokolade and stay cozy by our fire pits. 🔥 🍷 🍺 ☕️ …