About this Event
Folklore, ancestors, and the turning into winter
As the nights draw in and the last of the autumn light fades, we gather around the fire to mark Samhain — the turning of the year and the beginning of winter.
In the Gaelic seasonal calendar, Samhain marks a threshold: a time when the harvest gives way to the darker months, the natural world retreats into rest, and the boundaries between the familiar and the unknown seem to grow thinner.
For generations, this turning of the seasons has been accompanied by fires, feasting, folklore and stories passed from one generation to the next. It is a time to remember those who came before us, tend the connections that sustain us, and find warmth in one another as the nights grow colder.
Join us around the fire for an evening of stories, reflection and seasonal ritual, drawing inspiration from the folklore and traditions of Scotland, Ireland, the wider Celtic world, and beyond.
Together, we'll explore the mysteries of the season: the wisdom held in the natural world, the stories that connect us to our ancestors, and the things we carry with us as we cross the threshold into winter.
There will be space to listen, reflect, share, and simply be together. We'll gather around the fire, with seasonal offerings, folklore and opportunities to honour the changing season in our own ways.
What to bring:
A lantern, if you'd like to make one. Carved turnip lanterns were a traditional feature of Hallowe'en in Scotland, long before pumpkins became commonplace. You're welcome to bring a carved turnip or pumpkin to light up the gathering.
Something for our ancestors' place. This time of year is associated with the thinning of the barriers between this life and the afterlife. We'll have an alter, a seat around the fire for the departed souls. You might bring a photograph, a small keepsake, a written name, or another object that helps you remember someone who came before you. This could be a loved one who has died, an ancestor in your family line, or someone whose life has helped shape your own. There is no expectation to share anything personal; this is simply an invitation to make a little space for remembrance.
Something to offer the circle. Scottish guising traditions included songs, stories, jokes and other performances offered in exchange for treats. In that spirit, you're invited to bring a song, a poem, a story, a riddle, an instrument or another small cultural offering to share around the fire. No polished performance is needed — a little contribution, offered in good spirit, is more than enough.
Something to sit on. Seating is provided, but the fires are well attended, if you have your own chair or covering to place on the ground, please bring it along to ease the burden.
And, of course, you're welcome to come with nothing to offer but your presence. This, too, is so precious.
There is no need for previous experience, particular beliefs or knowledge of Pagan traditions. Come with curiosity, an open mind, and a willingness to spend a little time in good company.
As the light fades, let us gather.
To remember what came before us.
To honour the changing season.
To share what we have to offer.
To tend the light we carry into the dark.
When: Saturday 31 October, doors: 5:30PM; fire lit at 6.
Where: The Salisbury Centre, Newington.
Contribution: By donation, limited spaces, booking advised to guarantee entrance.
Bring: Warm layers, something to sit on if needed, and anything you'd like to share around the fire.
All are welcome.
Event venue & nearby stays
The Salisbury Centre, 2 Salisbury Road, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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