1. Religion & Spirituality

Samhain Rituals and Ceremonies

Looking for a ceremony or ritual to celebrate the Pagan sabbat of Samhain? Here's where you'll find a number of rituals, all of which can be adapted either for solitaries or a group.

Samhain Ancestor Meditation

It's Samhain, and that means for many Pagans and Wiccans it's time to commune with the ancestors. Use this simple meditation technique to call upon those who walked before us -- you may be surprised at some of the people you meet!

Celebrate the Cycle of Life and Death

Samhain is known as the witch's new year. It is a time to think about the endless cycle of life, death, and rebirth. With this ritual, you can celebrate all three aspects either with a group or as a solitary.

Celebrate the God & Goddess at Samhain

In some Wiccan traditions, people choose to honor the God and Goddess, rather than focusing on the harvest aspect of the holiday. If this is something you'd like to do, this ritual welcomes the Goddess in her persona as Crone, and the Horned God of the autumn hunt.

Honor the Ancestors at Samhain

For many Wiccans and Pagans, the honoring of the ancestors is a key part of their spirituality. This ceremony can be held by itself or as part of a group of Samhain rituals.

Hold a Samhain Rite to Honor Animals

Man's relationship with animals has evolved over thousands of years. Where once they were only a source of food, now they are our companions. Take a moment to honor the animal spirits in a ritual for Samhain.

Honor the Harvest's End - A Samhain Ritual for Wiccans and Pagans

Samhain falls on October 31, and is known as the Witch's New Year. You can celebrate it as the end of the harvest, and honor the return of the King of Winter.

Samhain Altars

Did you dress up your altar for Samhain, the witch's new year? Share a photo of your altar with our readers - we'd love to see what you did!See submissions

Discuss in my forum

©2012 About.com. All rights reserved.

A part of The New York Times Company.