Regular Event:
21st Dec 2023
The Winter Solstice – Yule or ‘Yogh’ in old Scots – was celebrated in Scotland by pagans, druids and Viking ancestors who heavily influenced the folklore and culture of Scotland. This period of the Scottish calendar year is characterised by short days, long nights and harsh temperatures, whilst awaiting the return of the Sun and new life in the New Year.
Starting from the 21st December, the Fife Arms’ celebrations of Scottish Yuletide traditions start around our courtyard firepit to mark the Winter Solstice with mulled drinks and the ceremonial burning of the Yule log, as we herald in good luck and the return of longer, lighter days together.
Ceremonial Burning of the Yule Log (Calleach – Winter Witch): The tradition of Yule logs dates back to the Druids who believed the sun stood still for 12 days in the middle of winter, so logs (traditionally Ash or Birch) were lit to combat the darkness, banish evil spirits and promote good fortune.
