The seasons of the Waldorf year
The seasonal anchors of the Waldorf year. These aren’t extra work. They’re the emotional landmarks your family returns to, year after year.
Michaelmas
The courage festival. Archangel Michael conquers the dragon as outer light wanes and we turn inward.
Bake dragon bread, forge Michael stars, stage the dragon play, share the harvest.
Chronological
Easter
The cosmic-seasonal festival. Sun, moon, and earth align; new life rises from the ground.
May Day
Spring in full bloom. The earth and sun in marriage; we dance the May pole.
Whitsun (Pentecost)
The festival of community and the descended spirit. White flowers, doves, and gathering together.
St John's Tide
The midsummer fire festival. The soul breathes out into the cosmos at the year’s height of light.
Michaelmas
The courage festival. Archangel Michael conquers the dragon as outer light wanes and we turn inward.
Harvest Festival
Gratitude for what the earth has given. The grain is gathered, the table is laid, and we acknowledge the year’s gifts.
Martinmas & Lantern Walk
The festival of inner light. St Martin shared his cloak; we walk in silent procession with handmade lanterns at dusk.
Advent Spiral
The child walks a spiral of evergreens to the centre, lighting an apple-candle from one steady flame.
Winter Solstice
The longest night. The unborn light is reborn in the darkness; the Holy Nights begin.
Christmas
The birth of the light in the deepest darkness. The nativity reaches its centre; the Holy Nights begin.