Ostara--First Day of Spring

Ostara--approximately March 21

Ostara takes place on the Spring Equinox and is the second spring festival. It is a celebration of rebirth, renewal and fertility as the Mother Goddess has returned to her maiden status and reunites with the young God; together they plant the seeds of the coming year in her womb. Although this festival doesn't have a strong historical connection, it is traditionally the time the ground is prepared and the early, harder crops are planted. In modern times is a time when projects are organized and set into motion.
As a time of balance of not only day and night, but of the masculine and feminine energy, it is a time for new beginnings or revitalizing old projects. Many prosperity rituals are performed on this day as a way of connecting personal success to the fertility of the seasons. As the days grow longer and the crops grow to eventually bear fruit, so shall the person be blessed with their needs and wants being granted.
Celebrations include lighting fires, ringing bells and decorating hard-boiled eggs. The eggs represent the Goddess of Fertility. The whites represent the feminine, while the yoke represents the masculine. Eggs were gathered to be used as talismans or ritually eaten as a fertility blessing. This day is also special to the Goddess Eostre; her patron animal was the hare. The hare and rabbit's represent fertility and prosperity.
Using many of the traditional pagans symbols and traditions, Christians created Easter. Although there are several differences in the traditions, the primary focus is on rebirth and growth.
Out of the Shadows and Into the Light is an ebook, which contains not only more information about Wiccan and Pagan Holidays, but also original spells and rituals for the modern day world. It can be bought at www.theresachaze.com

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