As the lush greens of summer transition into the golden tones of late July/January and early August/Febuary, the Wheel of the Year brings us to Lughnasadh, which marks the beginning of the trio of harvest festivals in pagan and Wiccan practices, followed by Mabon and Samhain. Known also as Lammas or the Bread Harvest, Lughnasadh is a period to give thanks for the first fruits of the season, a time for community gatherings, and a moment to honor Lugh, the Celtic god of light and craftsmanship. In this article, we explore the depth and beauty of Lughnasadh, offering you various ways to celebrate and appreciate this enriching holiday.
When is Lughnasadh?
Lughnasadh, also known as Lammas, is celebrated annually on August 1st in the Northern Hemisphere. In 2025, Lughnasadh will be observed on Friday, August 1st, 2025.
This Sabbat marks the first harvest, a time to give thanks for the Earth’s abundance and the labor that sustains us. Associated with the Celtic god Lugh, this is a time to celebrate skills, craftsmanship, and the fruits of hard work. Lughnasadh invites reflection on cycles of sowing and reaping, both in the fields and in our lives.
Historical Roots
Derived from the Old Celtic festival in honor of the god Lugh, Lughnasadh traditionally celebrated the beginning of the harvest season. It was a time when communities came together to feast, compete in games, and offer first fruits to the gods for blessings on the rest of the harvest. Today, it remains a time of gathering, often celebrated with communal feasts, bonfires, and rituals that focus on the harvest, community, and gratitude.
Celebrating the Harvest
As the first of the harvest festivals on the Wheel of the Year, Lughnasadh is particularly associated with grains like wheat, barley, and corn. You may engage in bread-baking rituals, create corn dollies, or even host a communal feast featuring freshly baked goods and seasonal fruits. Offering the first grains and fruits to the gods or Earth is also a common practice, symbolizing thanks and a wish for a continued fruitful season.
Rituals and Traditions
Traditional Lughnasadh rituals often revolve around sacrifice and offering. You might create an altar adorned with seasonal vegetation, symbols of the god Lugh, and harvest-related tools like scythes and sickles. Ritualistic games and athletic competitions are also a staple, celebrating the skill and might of Lugh. Today’s modern practices may also include crafting, divination, and rituals that focus on personal growth and prosperity.
Lughnasadh Dates
Usually celebrated around August/Febuary 1st, the exact date can vary among different traditions. Consult local pagan or Wiccan communities or check the astronomical calendar to confirm the specific date for Lughnasadh celebrations in your region.
Witches Of The Craft® 