For some, Winter Solstice is the December holiday to observe

[icymist]

The holiday lights that illuminate December nights in the northern hemisphere are a wonderful distraction from the fact that daylight is becoming more limited as it leads up to the day with the least amount of sunlight, the Winter Solstice.

These long, dark nights did not go unnoticed by ancient people, who found their own ways to deal with them. Those methods remain alive as traditions associated with Christmas and also with people who continue to recognize and celebrate Winter Solstice.

"For me, Winter Solstice or Yule is celebrated in the traditional Pagan way," said Trish Reynolds, author and high priestess. "We mark the moment of Solstice with a candle – this year at 12:47 p.m. on Monday Dec. 21, then settle in to keep vigil all night by throwing a party with family and friends. We decorate with evergreens, feast with traditional pagan foods like turkey and ham and goose when you can get it!
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[winyanstaz]

1. Osiyo Icymist :)

We had a lovely Solstice here with family and friends. We drank the Waters of Life and we did a traditional toast for good wishes for the coming cycle. We also had a nice Yule fire out back and did a little fire magic. We danced around and we got to sing and chant. Later we all went downstairs and jammed with the band and rocked out a bit...it was tons of fun.
Since some of my extended family are also Christian we celebrate from the 21st (Winter Solstice/Yule) until the 25 (Christmas day.) so it's a busy week for us.
Tomorrow it is over until New Years and that will be a good excuse for another party..followed closely by my birthday :P
After that I plan on hibernating until spring planting time. I AM a bear after all. :P

[icymist]

2. Hi Winyanstanz

My computer has been down since the 23rd and we just got it back today. We had a quiet little celebration here at home. Glad y'all had a good time.
Ciao bella, icy