Friday, December 20, 2024

The Twelve Days of Christmas Break: The 2nd Day - Yule

 On the second day of Christmas Break, spend some time learning about the holiday of Yule.


Yule began in Germanic countries as a midwinter celebration lasting for twelve days (and is the origin for the twelve days of Christmas). It begins on the eve of the Winter Solstice and continues through December 31. 

Yule is about celebrating light and the beginning of  the lengthening of the days after the longest night of the year (Winter Solstice). 

Modern lore tells the story of the battle of the Oak King and the Holly King. The Oak King represents the light of the new year while the Holly King represents the darkness of the year that has passed.


Yule logs are often decorated and then burned in the hearth while telling stories and sharing time with loved ones. 


An easy craft to do with your kiddos to celebrate the return of the sun (and one that makes your house smell lovely) is a pomander. 

Supplies you will need

Orange for each child
Whole Cloves
Ribbon (optional)
Large headed straight pin for each child (optional)

Use cloves to pierce the skin of the orange and insert them to create festive designs. If you would like decorate your pomander with ribbon, use a straight pin to secure it to the orange. These can hang (using the ribbon) or can be placed in a bowl. If you choose to display them in a bowl, rotate them daily so they dry evenly and prevent mold.



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