Happy Esbat!

Yesterday was the full moon, lovelies, and I had a great time. I was feeling well enough to make two types of fudge for the fairies (one gluten and dairy free, and the other with evaporated milk in it!). I did some personal workings with my close friends, and we sat back and talked while the magic did its thing.

But what is an Esbat? For me, it’s very much like a sabbat, except it’s about the moon.

I know, I know, it’s technically not ‘right’. Sabbats are traditionally celebrations, time to ‘turn the wheel’, while Esbats are times for personal workings. But for me, the two intertwine.

You see, I’m not much of a moon person. Sacrilege, I know. Most witches are massive moon people. But I am a sun and daylight person. As such, I find myself wanting to do workings in line with the sun, during Sabbats. For me, I find that these seasonal turnings are a great way to keep my life moving forward.

And yet, the end of this full moon feels like it’s marking the beginning of spring. Here, it is warm now. The sun is shining fully, the snow is melting. After all, the full moon is usually the coldest part of the lunar cycle. So now, with the full moon ended and spring approaching, it is lovely out. I am gearing up, starting my plans, for spring and the garden. I will be setting up my sprouts soon, but not yet!

So in this sense, it feels like the Esbat has taken on the role of the Sabbat, heralding the closeness of spring.

And you? How do you define a Sabbat versus an Esbat? How do you celebrate both, and how do you view them in your traditions?

I don’t have any particular wisdom for you beyond that, but I do wish you all a lovely seasonal beginning. I hope you enjoyed your full moon, did plenty of lovely workings, and are ready for the season to come!