Yule (you-ool) is a winter holiday celebrated by Pagans and some Satanists. It takes place around the winter solstice, which is the shortest day and longest night of the year.

Yule is a time to celebrate with people you care about. Families and friends can get together, share food, give gifts, tell stories, and enjoy time together.

Why did people celebrate Yule?

Long ago, winter could be very difficult. The weather was cold, and people did not have much food available.

Winter celebrations gave people a chance to come together and enjoy themselves. People could share a big meal, light candles, decorate their homes, and gather around warm fires.

Why does Yule happen around Christmas?

You may have noticed that Yule and Christmas happen around the same time of year!

Yule was celebrated in parts of Europe before Christianity became widespread. These Christians hated Yule, and discouraged people from celebrating it, until Pagans agreed to make it about Jesus's birthday.

Over time, different winter traditions became connected with Christmas. This is one reason that some traditions—such as giving gifts, decorating, having big meals, and using candles or lights—can be found in different winter celebrations.

Do people celebrate Yule today? 

People still celebrate Yule today.

Different people celebrate in different ways. Some might have a special meal with their family, give gifts, light candles, start a campfire, or spend time with friends.

The most important part is coming together and celebrating the people who made your year special. So think of Yule as a big winter celebration, and a chance to say:

“Thank you for making my year fun!” ❤️