What are the Sabbats and Esbats?

[Mazu Sakura]

When and what are the Sabbats and Esbats?

[raynelae]

The sabbats are solar celebrations that recognize the God and the Goddess and the changing seasons of the earth. there are 8 sabbats...Samhain-October 31st or November 1st, Yule-circa December 21st (upcoming!!!), Imbolc-February 1st, Ostara-circa March 21st, Beltane-May 1st, Litha-Circa June 21st, Lughnasadh-August 1st, Mabon-circa September 21st. These dates vary a bit year to year, but they don't have to be celebrated on the exact date they fall on. It's fine to celebrate them a few days before or after they actually happen. Now to celebrate them, you'll have to do a bit of research, as with the esbats. You can find much information on these celebrations on this website and paganwiccan.about.com as well as other sites. Ask any questions you have about these celebrations on this board okay...the esbats occur monthly and are lunar celebrations. They celebrate the Goddess and since She is the ruler of the moon, the God isn't usually celebrated at esbat rituals. The dates change each month and they are typically celebrated at the full moon but some traditions also celebrate the new moon. Hope this gave you the bare basics...happy celebrating and learning and welcome to the forum!!

[Mazu Sakura]

Thank you raynelae!
Blessed Be!

[Firebird]

Ray! you go dude! very well explained. I would just like to add, an Esbat is any regular meeting of the witches coven. Full Moons, Dark Moons, or any other regular meeting with your coven, like every Sunday tea leaf readings or weekly energy work in the park, these meetings occur within the consecrated circle, to be an Esbat.
One other thing, the Goddess may reign at the Full Moon but both the God and the Goddess are venerated at the Esbat celebration, it helps to maintain the balance. Same in a solar celebration, the God may reign, but when it comes to cakes and ale, they are both recognized. Blessings Firebird

[Mazu Sakura]

So the time for Esbat Celebration is when you meet with your coven?
What if you are solitary??

[Firebird]

The Esbat is a time to make merry, I don't know if you really need a coven to make a joyous celebration, I guess the more the merrier though.
BB, Firebird

[raynelae]

The Esbat is a time to make merry, I don't know if you really need a coven to make a joyous celebration, I guess the more the merrier though.
BB, Firebird

Have to agree with this.

[Mazu Sakura]

So said, Can it be any day of the lunar month??

[Firebird]

Yep!