Folk Magic Fundamentals

  • Folk magic, which is also sometimes referred to as “low magic,” is rooted in practical magical remedies and rituals that are meant to help us live well. Folk Magic Fundamentals is intended to teach you methods for magical living that honors where you live, your own heritage, and the spirits that exist all around you.

    Through Folk Magic Fundamentals, Sterling offers several short, seasonal or themed, series of classes that are held throughout the year. The specifics of each class series change and evolve, just as our practices do throughout the year.

    Folk magic requires hands-on work, so you will be offered ways that you can start making this work personal right from the start.

Yuletide Spirits and Traditions

In this two-class offering in the Folk Magic Fundamentals series, we will delve into the folklore and duality of the Yuletide season. Folk traditions celebrating the Yuletide season and Winter Solstice laid much of the foundation for our modern Christmas. However, beyond the themes of feasting and fun, there is also lore of spirits and mythical beasts and tales both whimsical and terrifying.

Yuletide Spirits and Traditions - December 2024 - $111

In this two-class offering in the Folk Magic Fundamentals series, we will delve into the folklore and duality of the Yuletide season. Folk traditions celebrating the Yuletide season and Winter Solstice laid much of the foundation for our modern Christmas. However, beyond the themes of feasting and fun, there is also lore of spirits and mythical beasts and tales both whimsical and terrifying. While Yule is a time of celebration, warmth, and joy, those traditions often serve as a counterbalance to the darkest night of the Winter Solstice, which is a time that spirits are said to roam.

Treat yourself to a few hours this December sinking into the background and stories of the Yuletide season and learning magical traditions you can incorporate into your holiday. Folk magic is meant to be personal and local, so you will also be offered prompts to explore the customs and folklore of your own lineage, as well as those in your immediate community. 

How?

Classes will be recorded, with access to replays available until January 31, 2025. Students will also receive a one-time 33% discount code for any of Sterling’s services (not applicable to classes, programs, or shop items)

When?

Class #1: The Merry and Bright of the Yuletide Season

Thursday, December 5th, 6:30PM – 8PM, optional sharing circle from 8PM – 8:30PM

In our first class, we will explore the celebratory aspects of the Yultide season. We’ll weave through stories of spirits said to reward the deserving and punish the naughty and the symbolism found throughout the common themes we see in our modern Christmas. We’ll also examine how these old ways lay a protective magical foundation for the darkest night of the year. Of course, we will also explore how you can incorporate these traditions, along with those from your own heritage, into your own Yuletide celebrations. 

Class #2: Magic and Lore of the Darkest Night

Thursday, December 12th, 6:30PM – 8PM, optional sharing circle from 8PM – 8:30PM

Our second class will be dedicated to the less frequently discussed aspects of the Yuletide season. Some say that Yule is the real spooky season and, as the darkest night of the year, the Winter Solstice is said to be a night that the dead are free to wander. It is also a perfect night for releasing what you no longer wish to carry into the lighter days that will follow as well as harnessing the darkness for more baneful workings. We’ll explore both these darker legends, ethical considerations around left-handed work, and rituals and recipes you can incorporate into your own practice.