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Asatru Calendar
Even though this is from 2002, the dates are pretty much the same every year. |
| THE 2002
INDIANA ASATRU COUNCIL'S CALENDAR OF ASATRU & NORDIC RITUALS, EVENTS,
FESTIVALS AND DAYS OF REMEMBRANCE One of the greatest duties of the believer in the Gods and Goddesses of our elder faith is to keep the holy feasts, or blessings, of the year. The holding of these feasts, alone or with a group, is one of the things that all Asatruar have in common; it lies at the very heart of the northern religion. At our blessings, we meet with the gods and goddesses and with the spirits of our ancestors: we hallow ourselves together with the worlds around us. The festivals of our ancestors were largely based on the chief points of the agricultural year. Although most of us are no longer planters and reapers of crops, the turning of the year that we see in the fields also mirrors its turning within our souls and the worlds beyond. The fruitfulness that we plant and harvests that we bless are the fruitfulness and harvests of all our works in every aspect of life. CALENDAR AND RUNIC HALF MONTHS 2002CE 2252RE January / Snow Moon 3rd Feast of Thor 7th Day to honor Freya 9th Remembrance of Raud the Strong 12th Distaff Day (Frigga) 20th MidWinter Blot (Midvinters) * Festival of Thorablottar 26th Founders Day American Vinland Association 1996CE 29th Up Helly Day (Shetland Island) Burn Ritual 31st Disting Night Runic Half Months: 13th Perthro 28th Elhaz February / Horning Moon 1st Disting (Disablot) 2nd Barri 4th King Frost Day (USSR) 9th Remembrance of Eyvind Kinnrifi 10th Vali Blot * 15th Remembrance of Sigfrid 18th Festival of Women (Sweden) 28th Kalevala Day (Finland) Runic Half Months: 12th Sowilo 27th Tiwaz Notes: 1. Raud the Strong Raud was a landowner in Norway who was put to death by Olaf Tryggvason for his loyalty to Asatru, by having a snake forced down his throat. His land was confiscated, and given to the church. 2. American Vinland Association http://www.freyasfolk.org/ 3. Up Helly AA Day (Shetland Island) The custom of Up Helly A, a procession at Lerwick on Shetland, which ends with burning, torches being thrown aboard a Viking longship. It marks the end of the Yule season. The tradition is not too old; the ship burning started in 1889. A group called the Jarl men, who wear Viking costumes on the day of launching, builds the ship. http://www.up-helly-aa.org.uk/ 4. Barri This is the day to celebrate the wooing by Frey of the Maiden Gerd, a symbolic marriage of the God of Fertility with the Mother Earth. It is a festival of fertility, of the planted seed and the plowed furrow. For those of you who garden, this is the time to plant seed starts indoors to later be transplanted into your garden. 5. Eyvind Kinnrifi Was tortured to death by Olaf Tryggvason, a bowl of red-hot embers was placed on his stomach until he burst open because he would not convert to Christianity. 6. Feast Of Vali This feast was originally to celebrate the death of Hodr by Vali. This late Winter festival relates to the triumph of the return of the light of the sun over the dark days of winter. Today in the traditional celebration of lovers and family A time for the customary exchange of cards and gifts with loved ones. It is also a time for the renewal of marriage vows and an occasion for marriages/handfastings. 7. The Kalevala The national epic of Finland Compiled by the physician, folklorist, and philologist Elias Lonnrot (1802-1884) in the course of twelve research trips (1828- 1844), made on foot or skis, which took him north to Petsamo in the Arctic, east to Archangel on the White Sea, and south to Ingria and Estonia, as well as through much of present day Finland and the Karelian Autonomous Soviet Republic. http://kalevala.hypermart.net/aboutkalevala.htm 8. Plough Monday On Plough Monday a horse draws a decorated plough in a ritual procession. A woman who would be representing the Goddess of Winter should lead the procession. Young men would dress up in ribbons and pull a decorated plough through the streets, accompanied by music. In some areas a corn dolly would be planted in the first new furrow that was ploughed. This would allow the corn spirit to return to the field ready for the next harvest. March / Lenting Moon 2nd Eir Blot / Holy Well Day 3rd Aegir Blot 9th Remembrance of Oliver the Martyr 14th Armor's Day 17th Summer Finding Ritual * 19th Weaving Day 20th Summer Finding (VERNAL EQUINOX) 24th Heimdall Blot 25th Waffle Day (Sweden) 28th Remembrance of Ragnar Lodbrok Runic Half Months: 14th Berkano 29th Ehwaz April / Ostara 1st Loki's Day 9th Remembrance of Jarl Hakon Sigurdsson of Norway 14th Ostara (Ostarablot) *(Park clean up 10:00 am Picnic 12:00 Noon, Ritual 2:00PM) 15th Ostara Blot 19th Nerthus Blot 22nd Sumarsdag First Day of Summer (Iceland) Sigr (Victory) Blot 23rd Founders Day Odinic Rite 1980 http://www.odinic-rite.org/oruk.htm 25th Flag Day (Faroe Island) 30th Valpurgis Eve/Walpurgisnacht Runic Half Months: 14th Mannaz 29th Laguz Notes: The Germanic goddess for this time of the year was Ostara, whose symbol is an egg. The festival is now known as Easter and the eggs have continued. These days there is a chance to decorate an egg or to buy one of the chocolate kinds as a gift for somebody special. Egg and spoon races were a feature in many village schools well into the 1950's. In Ireland there would be competitions for children who would roll their hard-boiled eggs down hills. 1. Oliver the Martyr Organized underground sacrifices to the Gods, despite decrees by King Olaf forbidding such activities. Betrayed by an informer, he was killed by Olaf's men while preparing for the Spring sacrifice in the village of Maerin, Norway. 2. Ragnar Lodbrok Ragnar raided Paris in the year 895 RE, and won himself a place in history. He is one of the most famous Vikings in history. 3. Jarl Hakon As ruler of the western part of Norway, Hakon restored the worship of the Old Gods. In the process, the common folk regained political liberties which were erased under Christian rule, and the flame of our Troth burned brighter in an era of gathering gloom. It may be that Hakon's defense of our ancestral ways helped encourage the survival of our traditions in Iceland, where they eventually became the seeds of modern day Asatru. On this day, reflect on how the actions of the individual can impact world events. 4. Sumarsdag/Sigrblot Summer's Day The first day of Summer in the Old Icelandic calendar. In Iceland it probably had strong agricultural overtones, but elsewhere throughout the Nordic world, mid-April was a time to sacrifice to Odin for victory, called the Sigrblot. 5. Valpurgis Eve/Walpurgisnacht Better know as May Eve, Walburg is a Goddess of the Folk combining some of the traits of her better know peers. Reflect this day on Freyja's sinister side, on Hel, and on Frigga as the repository of the glorious dead, and you will have an idea of Walburg's nature. May/ Merry Moon 1st May Day (Valpurgisblot/Walpurgis) 3rd - 5th CAMPING TRIP 5th Liberation Day (Denmark) 6th Mjollnir Blot 8th Liberation Day (Norway) 9th Remembrance of Guthroth of Uppland 12th Frigga Blot / Mother's Day *(Park clean up 10:00 am Picnic 12:00 Noon, Ritual 2:00PM) 14th Festival of the midnight sun in Norway (For the sun goddess) 17th Constitution Day Syttende Mai Fest (Norway) 20th Mjollnir Blot 30th Frigga's Blot Runic Half Months: 14th Ingwaz 29th Dagaz June / Midyear 1st Syn's Blot 5th Constitution Day (Denmark, Greenland & the Faroe Island) 6th Constitution Day (Sweden) Seaman's Day (Iceland) 8th Lindisfarne Day, 793CE 9th Remembrance of Sigurd of the Volsung 14th Vidar's Blot 15th Flag Day (Denmark) 17th Independence Day (Iceland) 18th Founders Day Asatru Alliance 1987CE http://alliance.eagleut.com/ 21st Mid Summer (Midsummarsblot) SUMMER SOLSTICE National Day (Greenland) 23rd Midsummarsblot *(Park clean up 10:00 am Picnic 12:00 Noon, and Ritual at 2:00PM) 29th Runic New Year Runic Half Months: 14th Othala 29th Fehu Notes: 1. Guthroth Minor King of Uppland who spoke out against Olaf Tryggvason. For speaking out his tongue was cut out. 2. Mjollnir Thor's Hammer 3. Lindisfarne Three Viking ships raided the isle of Lindisfarne in 793CE, and sacked a monastery there. This raid started what is commonly known as the Viking era. 4. Day of Remembrance for Sigurd the Volsung He is the consummate Germanic hero. His wooing of the Valkyrie Brynhild, the winning of the treasure of the Nibelungs, and the constant theme of Odinic initiation that weaves itself throughout his story are priceless parts of our Asatru heritage, that provide endless material For contemplation, and inspiration for action. 5. Midsummer This is the longest day and the shortest night of the year. Sunna begins her long decline, sliding into the darkness, which will culminate six months from now at Yule. Perform a greeting to Sunna early in the morning; bask in her rays all day. This was the traditional time for holding the Althing in ancient times. July/ Hay Moon 4th Founders/Ancestors Day 5th Tynwald Day (Isle of Man) 7th Sunna Blot *(Park clean up 10:00 am Picnic 12:00 Noon, and Ritual at 2:00PM) 9th Remembrance of Unn the Deep Minded 10th Day of Holda/Hella (Anglo-Saxon and Norse goddess of the Underworld) 14th Frey's Blot 23rd Aegir's and Ran's Blot 26th Sleipnir's Day 29th Stikklestad Day 1030CE Olav's Feast (Faroe Island) 30th Loki & Sigyn's Day (DEVOTED COUPLES DAY) 31st Loaf Feast Eve (Freyfaxi Eve) Runic Half Months: 14th Uruz 29th Thurisaz August / Harvest Moon 1st Loaf Feast - (Freyfaxiblot) 9th Remembrance of Rodbod of Frisia 11th Thing Tide/Freyfaxi Blot * (Park clean up 10:00 am Picnic Noon, and Ritual at 2:00PM) 17th First day of Odin's Rune Ordeal 24th Thing Tide 25th Rune Day Odin obtains the Runes 26th Festival of the Water Mother (Finland) 28th Pagan harvest festival in Norway Runic Half Months: 13th Ansuz 29th Raidho Notes: 1. Founders/Ancestors Day On this day we honor the unselfish personal sacrifice and dedication to our Faith exemplified by the founders of modern Asatru: H. Rud Mills of Australia and Sveinbjorn Beinteinsson of Iceland. 2. Tynwald Day A REMARKABLE custom is observed annually on Tynwald Mount, in the Isle of Man, on old Midsummer Day, July 5th. Alike for antiquity, quaintness, and as the only survival of the oral method of handing down laws, it is very interesting, and though, of course, almost superfluous, it should be continued, if only as a link with the days of the Sagas. The principal part of the ceremony proclaiming the laws-takes place on Tynwald Hill, the name of which indicates its ancient use. Tyn " is derived from the Icelandic word "Thingvellir," which means the place where a "Thing " - that is, a public assembly-is held. "Thing," denoting an assembly, was in common use in Anglo-Saxon times, and is still preserved in the Storthing, in the kingdom of Norway. In Early English history, too, it appears in such forms as "Althing," " Tything," " Thingstead," etc. "Tynwald," therefore, may be taken to mean the place of meeting of a public governing body. 3. Unn the Deep Minded Unn was a powerful person in the Laxdaela Saga. From Norway she moved to Scotland to get away from King Harald Finehair. She built a dynasty in the Orkney, and Faeroe Islands. As a settler in Iceland she continued to exhibit all those traits which were her hallmarks - a strong will, a determination to control, dignity, and a noble character. In the last days of her life, she established a mighty line by choosing one of her grandsons as her heir. She died during his wedding celebrations, presumably having accomplished her goals and worked out her orlog here in Midgard. She received a typical Nordic ship burial, surrounded by her treasure and her reputation for great deeds. 4. Stikklestada The battlefield in Norway where Olaf Tryggvason was killed in the year 1030 CE Olaf acquired a reputation for killing, maiming, and exiling his fellow Norwegians who would not convert to Christianity, and for carrying an army with him in violation of the law to help him accomplish this repression. 5. Olav's Feast In the Faroe Islands the old Viking traditions still exist. At the Olav's-Festival is when The Lagting (parliament) opens, the market and games take place just as they did 1000 years ago. The festival is held in the capital, Tórshavn (Thor's harbor) and is attended by people from all eighteen Faroe Islands. 6. Rodbod of Frisia Radbod a king of Frisia who was an early target for Christian missionaries. Just before his baptism ceremony, he asked the clergy what fate his befallen ancestors who died loyal to Asatru. The missionaries replied that Radbod's ancestors were burning in Hell - to which the king replied: " Then I will rather live there with my ancestors than go to heaven with a parcel of beggars." Radbod refused to convert faiths because his ancestor would not be with him. He then cast the missionaries and their alien religion out of his land. 7. Odin's Rune Ordeal Dates chosen to remember Odin's ride on the World Tree to win the Runes September / Shedding Moon 13th Remembrance of Herman the Cheruscan 15th Winter Finding Blot* (Park clean up 10:00 am Picnic Noon, and Ritual at 2:00PM) 20th - 22nd CAMPING TRIP 22nd Winter Finding (Haustblot) (AUTUMN EQUINOX) 28th Indianapolis Pagan Pride 29th Heimdallr Feast Pagan Awareness Day Runic Half Months: 9th Kenaz 28th Gebo October / Hunting Moon 8th Remembrance of Erik the Red 9th Remembrance of Leif Erikson 11th Ceremony honoring the lady of the elder trees, in Denmark and Germany 17th Remembrance of Hengest 20th Winter Night Blot *(Ritual 2:00 PM) 23rd Winter Festival (Marks the beginning of winter) 31st Winter Night (Vetrnaetr Eve) Runic Half Months: 13th Wunjo 28th Hagalaz Notes: 1. Herman the Cheruscan As the leader of the Cherusci people he defeated Varus' three Roman legions in the Teutonberger forest in the year 9CE. 2. Erik the Red Father of Leif, and founder of Greenland. When his wife converted to Christianity, giving up the old ways and faith, he refused to sleep with her anymore and remained loyal to Asa Thor. 3. Leif Erikson Leif started a settlement in Vinland (America) 500 years before Columbus set sail to the New World. His nickname was Leif the Lucky. This is a day that even the U. S. Government admits we should dedicate to the man who beat Columbus to the shores of Vinland by 500 years. Don't let it slide by quietly - write your local newspapers and share the word with your neighbors. 4. Hengest Fifth century Jutish King founded the city of Kent in England, died 488CE. November / Dog Moon 1st Winter Day (Vetrnaetrblot) 3rd Cattle Day (Norway: Time to bring the herds down for the winter) 8th Landvattir Blot 9th Remembrance of Queen Sigrith of Sweden 17th Einherjar Blot * 22nd Ullr Blot 23rd Weyland the Smith Feast Runic Half Months: 13th Naudhiz 28th Isa December / Jol 6th Independence Day (Finland) Wild Hunt Blot (Thor Nicholas Day) 9th Remembrance of Egil Skallagrimsson 13th Lucia Day Founders Day Ring of Troth, Inc. 1987CE http://thetroth.org/ 20th Mothers Night 21st Yule (WINTER SOLSTICE) 22nd Yule Blot * 31st Twelfth Night Runic Half Months: 13th Jera 28th Eihwaz Notes: 1. Queen Sigrith Olaf the lawbreaker proposed marriage, and conversion. Queen Sigridr replied "I do not mean to abandon the faith I have led, and my kinsmen before me. Nor shall I object to your belief in the god you prefer." Olaf slapped her, the wedding was off - and therein he lost Sweden. Depriving Olaf of political power that could have sped the Christianization of Scandinavia. As usual, Heathen tolerance was met with Christian imprecations and a blow to the face. Hail the ladies! 2. The Feast of Ullr A feast to celebrate the Hunt and to gain the personal luck needed for success. Weapons are dedicated on this day to Ullr. 3. Egil Skallagrimsson A follower of Odin, a berzerker, shape shifter, and renowned skald. His lust for gold, and fame were insatiable. Yet the same man was passionately moved by the love of his friends and generously open-handed to those who found his favor. The same brain that seethed with war-fury also composed skaldic poetry capable of calming angry kings. Can it be by accident that Egil followed Odin, the great resolver of paradoxes and riddles? 4. Lucia Day In Sweden, Young blond girls are chosen from cities across the country as "Lucia," to brighten one of the longest, darkest evenings of the year with wreaths of candles in their hair. In Stockholm, Lucia and her attendants are paraded through the streets in decorated carriages. Yule festivities commence on December 13th when a Lucia Queen is elected. Dressed in white and carrying lighted Yule candles she proceeds around town with maids and trolls. She visits houses, farms and stables as the bringer of life and light. At one time the Queen would have a headdress of lighted candles. NOTE: THIS YEAR THE ASATRU RITUALS IN THE PARK START AT 2:00 PM HIGH HOLY DAYS OF ASATRU: MOTHER NIGHT Yule (December) 20th As the night before the Winter Solstice, this is the time when the New Year is born. We honor the beginning of the Sun's return and the breaking of Winter's spell. This is a time to honor Thor and Frey, celebrate by drinking a toast to them. Have a Yule party with family and kindred. Decorate a tree with sunwheel and light a Yule Log. TWELVTH NIGHT Yule (December) 31st This culminates the traditional twelve days of Yule. Each day of which is a month of the preceding year in miniature Reflect on the past year. Take stocks and lay a course for the future. Make New Year's resolutions in the old way by swearing your oath on Frey's boar or on your Hammer. HIGH FEAST OF OSTARA Lenting (March) 21st This is the Spring Equinox. The end of Winter and the beginning of the season of rebirth. Today we honor Frigga, Freya and Nerthus. Pour a libatian of mead onto the Earth; celebrate the rebirth of nature, Asatru, and the new hopes of the Folk. WALBURG Ostara (April) 30th This is better know as Walpurgisnacht or May Eve. Walburg is a Goddess of our Folk combining some of the traits of her better known peers. Reflect this day on Freyja's sinister side, on Hel, and on Frigga as the repository of the glorious dead, and you will have an idea of Walburg's nature. On this day, pour a horn of mead upon the earth in memory of our heroes. MIDSUMMER Midyear (June 21st) This is the longest day and the shortest night of the year. Now Sunna begins its long decline, sliding into the darkness which will culminate six months from now at Yule. Identifying the sun with the brightness of Baldur, we celebrate in honor of both. Perform the Greeting to Sunna early in the morning; bask in her rays later in the day. This was the traditional time for holding the Althing in ancient times. FREYFAXI Harvest (August) 28th Freyfaxi marked the time of the harvest in Iceland. Dedicated to the God of the harvest, it was time for celebration with horse races, martial sports, and of course a Blot to Freyr and a feast. WINTER FINDING Shedding (September) the 21st The Fall Equinox: Summer and Winter balance for a moment and the cold, old man wins - for now. Brace yourself for longer nights and the onset, eventually, of the cold of Winter. This is the traditional time for Fall Feast and the celebration of the harvest WINTER NIGHTS / VETRARBLOT Hunting (October) 12th Winter Nights celebrates the bounty of the harvest and honors Freya and the female ancestor spirits called Disir. So you don't plow the fields? Someone does, or you wouldn't eat! Give glory to Freya and pour a libation of ale, milk, or mead into the soil as an offering to the Disir and the Earth itself. Celebrations, Events, and Festivals of Interest: Things to attend close to home or half a world away (Some of these you are not going to believe). NOTE: This is just a listing of events, as I get them! I am not saying in any way shape or form that I would or would recommend or support any of these events or the groups that sponsor them! ** Denotes events that the IAC plans to have members present at. If you know of any events that are not listed here please send e-mail to clgrarulfr@aol.com with the event information, and I will update this list. Jorvik Viking Festival 2001 February 16 - 24 York, UK 16th celebration of York's Viking past Jolablot, the annual Jorvik Viking Festival, takes place in York every February, when hundreds of Vikings warriors invade the city for their annual shown down with the Saxons. The Jorvik Viking Festival is one of the most colorful events in the calendar and a chance for visitors to York to experience history at first hand. http://www.jorvik-viking-centre.co.uk/SpecialEvents.htm WinterStar 2001 21-24 February Atwood Lake Resort Dellroy, OH This four-day event offers a unique opportunity to experience spiritual growth and good company in luxury-resort surroundings. It features a "village" of fully equipped cottages, free access to resort amenities (including indoor pool, spa and sauna), and top-name presenters discussing Magickal, Social, New Age, Consciousness Exploration, Health-Oriented, and Political issues with Drumming, Dancing, and Chanting workshops, Slide and Video presentations, Films, Rituals, Parties, and Musical performances. http://rosencomet.com/winterstar.html Scandinavian Masters ** March 14 - June 2 Scandinavian Masters exhibits featuring paintings in oil, watercolor, gouache and ceramic. Swedish American Museum Center, 5211 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL For more information, call 773-728-8111, or visit www.samac.org Ostara Festival at Big Sur April 5th - 8th, 2001 Troth sponsored event for the Pacific Coast region. For information, people should contact Stefn Thorsman: RavenX333@aol.com SASS Annual Conference ** April 25 - 28 Society for the Advancement of Scandinavian Studies (SASS), annual conference at the Congress Plaza Hotel, 520 S. Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL Hosted by the Center for Scandinavian Studies. For more information, call Charles Peterson at 773-244-5615, or visit www.byu.edu/sasslink Scandinavian Festival ** May 4 - 5 Sixth Annual Scandinavian Festival Atlanta, GA. USA Vikingskibshallen June 1, 200 - August 30, 2002 Roskilde, Denmark Description: Activities at this museum include a trip aboard a replica of one of the famous Viking ship. For more information http://www.vikinger.dk/english/aktimain.html Midsommarfest June 8 & 9 Andersonville, IL Celebrate Midsummer in Andersonville, IL with traditional dancing around the maypole and Swedish music. The annual street festival offers live music and children's activities. Saturday 11 am- 10 pm Sunday Noon- 10 pm. Dancing around the maypole at 11 a.m. in front of the Museum. To enter the street festival $5 per person, seniors & children free. For more information, call SAMAC at 773-728-8111. Jutajaiset June 14, 2002 - June 18, 2002 Rovaniemi, Finland Jutajaiset, the International Folklore Festival of Nightless Nights, is a summertime celebration in Rovaniemi in Finnish Lapland, right on the Arctic Circle. All across town there's traditional dance, music and song performances to enjoy. And, in the city streets, market places and on performance stages as well. These five sunny days and nights in an international atmosphere are the absolute highlight of the northern summer. This is an experience not to be missed! http://www.urova.fi/home/staalo/jutajaiset/ AFA/AA Gathering of the Tribes 2001 June 21-23, 2002 Yes, we are planning another huge gathering for next summer to continue the themes we began with 1999's Gathering of the Tribes! We ended one millennium with the first event, and we will start the twenty-first century with an even more powerful one. http://www.runestone.org/n_e_.html Vikingland Band Festival June 23 2002 Sunday Alexandria, Minnesota, USA Each June the Midwest's finest high school marching bands gather in Alexandria for the dazzling Vikingland Band Festival parade competition. http://www.marching.com/events/vbf/index.html 21st Annual Taste of Chicago ** June 28 - July 7 Chicago, IL. USA Nothing like it in America! Come and taste some good Scandinavian specialties! http://www.cityofchicago.org/SpecialEvents/Festivals.html Viking Games Stangaspelen July 11, 2002 - July 14, 2002 Stanga, Gotland, Sweden Description: This sporting event is known as the Viking Olympics with more than 1,700 competitors gathered http://festivals.com/~finder/display_eventdetails.cfm?EID=SESTA32280 Wife Carrying World Championships (You have got to read the web page) July 13, 2002 Sonkajarvi, Finland Description: Show your wife you love her by throwing her over your shoulders and racing this 250-meter course. Through sand, water, grass and asphalt, men endeavor to carry their wives (or someone else's) to the finish line in the shortest amount of time - without dropping them! The event is part of the Sonkajärvi County Fair. http://www.sonkajarvi.fi/kunta/eukonkanto/english/ Companion event: North American Wife Carrying Championships Saturday, July 20, 2002 North American Wife Carrying Championship at Sunday River, Maine - to benefit the Mahoosuc Arts Council http://www.wifecarrying.com/ Starwood XXI July 16 - 21, 2002 Brushwood Folklore Center, Sherman NY In another realm, where many realities meet A place where Scientists sit with Shamans and Druids dance with Deadheads. Where African drums jam with bluegrass fiddles, and Celtic harps combine with psychedelic synthesizers. Where political activism meets Earth spirituality, where theatre and life meld, where days are spent in exploration of inner and outer space, and nights blaze with laser lights and bonfire flames. http://srd.yahoo.com/goo/Starwood+festival+2001/1/*http://rosencomet.com/starwood2001/ All Souls Gathering July 19, 20, 21 Lothlorien Nature Sanctuary - Needmore, Indiana With special emphasis on our gay, lesbian, and BI friends and family For more information www.elflore.org/events Nordic Fest Decorah, Iowa ** July 25 - 27 2002 Join us for a festive weekend tour of Norway - one that includes costumes, dancing, rousing entertainment and delicious food - all wrapped in the scenic beauty of Northern Iowa. Contact: 1-800-382- 3378 or decorah@salamder.com The 25th Annual Pan Pagan Festival ** August 7-11, 2002 The Midwest Pagan Council invites you to attend our 25th Annual Pan Pagan Festival. SITE: The Festival will continue to be held at the same site as last year's fest, near Knox, IN. This primitive area has a playground, showers, and ice. For more information: http://ourworld.compuserve.com/homepages/eaglestar/panpagan.htm Junction City's Scandinavian Festival August 8 - 11 2002 Since 1961, the people of Junction City Oregon have been celebrating their rich Scandinavian heritage by transforming their downtown area into a charming Old World town. Offering cultural entertainment and activities in the authentic Scandinavian spirit, this four-day event pays homage to the cultures of Denmark, Finland, Norway, Sweden, and Iceland. Contact Us: Festival Secretary Sue Gabriel, or contact her by phone or snail mail. (541) 998-9372 P.O. Box 5., Junction City Oregon 97448 http://www.scandinavianfestival.com/ 16th Annual Scandinavian Fest Aug. 30 - Sept. 2 Labor Day Weekend Stanhope, NJ Celebrate the culture of Norway, Iceland, Denmark, Sweden, Finland, and Estonia. Contact: infor@scanfest.org Norsk HostFest ** October 8 - 12 Minot, ND World's largest Scandinavian American event Linking the Old World and New: Høstfest! It's the biggest Scandinavian-American festival in North America -- centuries of fun, history and heritage packed into four days and five nights! http://www.hostfest.com/home.html Earth Dance 2002 ** October 11-13, Hard Labor Creek State Park, Rutledge, GA, go 50 miles East of downtown Atlanta, GA off of I-20, Exit 105. We are very family orientated as children are not only our most precious resource but they are also our future. This gathering is an opportunity for Pagans/Heathens to network, share and learn from each other. What we do today can and will make a difference tomorrow. For more information: www.earth-dancing.com/earthdance2001.htm PNW Thingfest and Winter-finding November 1-3, 2002 - Flaming Geyser Park - $20 per person, includes site fees and meals Registration is limited, no registration at the festival except by prior reservation. For more information write valkyrie@eskimo.com or call 425-228-0986. Vikings: "The North Atlantic Saga" ** (A Must See) November 23, 2001 - February 21, 2002 This Nordic exhibition will commemorate the 1000-year anniversary of the Viking arrival in North America and explore the historical impact of new archaeological finds that have redefined the world's knowledge of early North American and Scandinavian life. The Chicago Field Museum, Chicago, IL http://www.fmnh.org/ Or http://www.amnh.org/exhibitions/vikings/resources.html SACC, Atlanta Lucia Celebration and Julbord December 1 Lucia celebration at the Atlanta Athletic Club with an authentic Swedish "Julboard" (Christmas buffet). Lucia: Lisa Gustafsson, Stockholm. Dancing to the New Atlanta Dance Band. Door prizes. For more information, contact: Jill Olander, Phone: 770-431-3324, Fax: 770-431-3316, E-mail: jill.olander@worldnet.att.net Lucia Day December 12, 2001 Stockholm, Sweden Young girls are chosen from cities across the country as "Lucia," to brighten one of the longest, darkest evenings of the year with wreaths of candles in their hair. In Stockholm, Lucia and her attendants are paraded through the streets in decorated carriages. http://www.sverigeturism.se/index-e.htm SON'S OF NORWAY Events 2002: http://www.sofn.com/ Monthly Meetings: 2nd Friday of each month, 6:30 PM at King of Glory Lutheran Church 2201 E 106th St Carmel, Indiana 2002 Summer Norwegian Camps Skogfjorden (District 1 Near Bemidji, Minnesota Eight sessions beginning in June for one, two and four weeks, ages 718 Contact: Concordia Language Villages Moorhead, MN 56562 800-222-4750 (outside MN) or 800-247-1044 (in MN) Third District Youth Camp Near Sherman, Pennsylvania July 915; Ages 1215 July 1622; Ages 811 Contact: Evelyn Karpack 973-627-5634 Masse Moro Norwegian Heritage Camp (District 5) Near Eau Claire, Wisconsin July 1629 Contact: Harland Anderson 920-739-2989 Camp Norway Skogn, Norway June 20July 17; Ages 16+ Contact: Sons of Norway 1455 W. Lake St. Minneapolis, MN 55408 800-945-8851 or 612-827-3611 VASA ORDER Events 2002: http://www.vasaorder.com/ Monthly Meetings: 2nd Sunday of each month Carmel Lions Club 141 E. Main St. (131st street) Carmel, IN District Cultural Leader - Iva Lynn ilynn@juno.com 627 Conner Creek Drive, Fishers, IN 46038 VASA Order of America, Viking Lodge #730 Lucia Celebration December 9th 4:00 pm at the International Institute in Flint, MI Contact: Jeanette Smith, Phone: (248) 634-8554, Fax: (248) 634-7091, E-mail: Carlson@fir.com December 2nd VASA Order of America - Nobel-Moniter Lodge #130 Lucia Celebration & Smörgåsbord Complete with Lucia and attendants singing in Swedish. Also hear the VASA Voices sing Swedish Christmas songs. Cleveland Heights, OH For more information call Marty Berman at 216-371-2741, or e-mail: martyb@nccw.net VIKING AGE CLUB http://www.vikingage.com/vac/vac.html Upcoming Events! THE VIKING RAIDER TOUR 2002 COMING SOON TO A VILLAGE NEAR YOU! This is a small list of events that the Viking Age Club will be attending. Please note that events/dates may change! January 22nd, Monthly Thing (see below) January 27th, Viking Feast, Danish American Hall, Minneapolis, Minnesota February 4th, Ingalam, French Creek Park, Minneapolis, Minnesota February 21st, Monthly Thing (see below) March 21st, Monthly Thing (see below) April 18th, Monthly Thing (see below) May 3rd - 6th, Festival of Nations, Saint Paul, Minnesota May 5th & 6th, Scandinavian Festival, Atlanta, GA. May 16th, Monthly Thing (see below) June 3rd, Danish Days, Minneapolis, Minnesota June 15th - 17th, Viking Games, Crosby, Minnesota June 29th - July 1st, Hjemkomst Festival, Moorehead, Minnesota July 27th - 29th, Nordic Fest, Decorah, Iowa September 21st - 23rd, Scandifest, Turlock, CA. October 6th, Leif Ericksson October, 10th - 13th, Norsk Høstfest, Minot, ND The Thing (monthly meeting) Takes place at: Augsberg Park Library 7100 Nicolette Avenue South Richfield, Minnesota 55423 For Info call: (612) 789-2272 HURSTWIC: (Formerly known as Viking Age Living History Society) http://www.valhs.org/index.html Is a living history society in New England founded to accurately re-create the life of the people living in England during the Viking Age Hurstwic Event Schedule 2002 Date Event March 9th Spring Combat - training, sparring and fratricidal combat in the mud and leftover snow March 30th Spring Warmer - an opportunity to get acquainted with new members of Hurstwic CLOSING NOTE: Many of our ancestors died for their religious beliefs this work is dedicated to them, they gave the last full measure so that we could follow the religion of our choice! In 998 AD, King Olaf Tryggvason made Norway a Christian country. During this time, many of the followers of the Viking religion were tortured and killed because they refused to convert to Christianity; among these was the seer, Thorleif the Wise, who was ordered to be blinded. He was taken by Olaf's men and it is said that he withstood the torture so bravely that his torturers fled after having torn out only one of his eyes. Other men stand out for their dedication to their religious under such heinous torture: Eyvind Kelde who was drowned alongside with his comrades, Iron Skegge who was killed while defending the temples at Maeri, Eyvind Kinnrifi who was tortured to death with hot coals, and Raud the Strong who was tortured with a poisonous snake and a hot iron; and the other men and women who gave up their lives rather than be converted to a religion they did not believe in. Hail the ancestors! This information was complied by the Indiana Asatru Council and C. L. Hankins II from the following sources. Scandinavian Events 2001 The Midhnott Sol Kindred Norse Contents Page American Vinland Association The Troth Irminsul Aettir Asatru Alliance Festivals.com The Worldwide Holiday & Festival Site Encyclopedia of Days Earth Calendar The Pagan Year An Old-Fashioned Solstice Sons of Norway Viking Age Club VASA Order of America Nordic Calendar Events Hurstwic =========================================== RAGNAR LODBROK DAY Lenting (March) 28th Ragnar was one of the legends' most famous Vikings. On this day in Runic Year 1145, he raided Paris. It just happened to be Easter Sunday. Today toast Ragnar, and read from his Saga. DAY OF REMEMBRANCE FOR JARL HAKON OF NORWAY. Ostara (April) 9th As ruler of the western part of the realm, Hakon restored the worship of the Old Gods and cast out the alien Christ. In the process, the common folk regained political liberties which were erased under the Christian yoke, and the flame of our Troth burned brighter in an era of gathering gloom. It may be that Hakon's defense of our ancestral ways helped encourage the survival of our traditions in Iceland, where they eventually became the seeds of modern day Asatru. On this day, reflect on how the actions of the individual can impact world events. SUMARSDAG/SIGRBLOT SUMMER'S DAY Ostara (April) 22nd Celebrates the first day of Summer in the Old Icelandic calendar. In Iceland it probably had strong agricultural overtones, but elsewhere throughout the Nordic world, mid-April was a time to sacrifice to Odin for victory, called the Sigrblot. WALBURG Ostara (April) 30th This is better know as Walpurgisnacht or May Eve. Walburg is a Goddess of our Folk combining some of the traits of her better know peers. Reflect this day on Freyja's sinister side, on Hel, and on Frigga as the repository of the glorious dead, and you will have an idea of Walburg's nature. On this day, pour a horn of mead upon the earth in memory of our heroes. FRIGGA BLOT Merrymoon (May) 27th Today we rejoice in the warmth and splendor of Spring. A traditional time for a Kindred campout, a blot to honor the AllMother and thank her for the health and vitality of the Family, Kindred and Tribe. LINDISFARNE DAY Midyear (June) 8th On this day in the year 1043 Runic Era (793 CE), three Viking ships raided the isle of Lindisfarne and sacked a monastery there, officially opening the Viking Age. Toast those brave warriors who struck out against the enemies of Asatru. DAY OF REMEMBRANCE FOR SIGURD THE VOLSUNG Midyear (June) 9th He is the consummate Germanic hero. His wooing of the Valkyrie Brynhild, the winning of the treasure of the Nibelungs, and the constant theme of Odinic initiation that weaves itself throughout his story are priceless parts of our Asatru heritage, that provide endless material For contemplation, and inspiration for action. A day for Sigurd the Volsung is very fitting. ASATRU ALLIANCE FOUNDING DAY Midyear (June) 18th On this date 2238 RE seven Kindreds of the former Asatru Free Assembly joined together by ratifying a set of bylaws to preserve and continue to promote the cause of the AFA and Asatru in Vinland. On this day reflect on just what YOU can do far our cause. SUMMER MIDSUMMER Midyear (June 21st) This is the longest day and the shortest night of the year. Now Sunna begins its long decline, sliding into the darkness which will culminate six months from now at Yule. Identifying the sun with the brightness of Baldur, we celebrate in honor of both. Perform the Greeting to Sunna early in the morning; bask in her rays later in the day. This was the traditional time for holding the Althing in ancient times. FOUNDER'S DAY Haymoon (July) 4th On this day we honor the unselfish personal sacrifice and unswerving dedication to our Folk exemplified by the founders of modern Asatru/Odinism: H. Rud Mills of Australia and Sveinbjorn Beinteinsson of Iceland. On this day reflect on just what YOU can do to promote the growth of our ancestral religion and protect our sacred heritage and traditions. DAY OF REMEMBRANCE FOR UNN THE DEEP MINDED Haymoon (July) the 9th Unn was a powerful figure from the Laxdaela Saga who immigrated to Scotland to avoid the hostility of King Harald Finehair. She established dynasties in the Orkney and Faroe Islands by carefully marrying off her grand daughters. As a settler in Iceland she continued to exhibit all those traits which were her hallmarks - a strong will, a determination to control, dignity, and a noble character. In the last days of her life, she established a mighty line by choosing one of her grandsons as her heir. She died during his wedding celebrations, presumably having accomplished her goals and worked out her orlog here in Midgard. She received a typical Nordic ship burial, surrounded by her treasure and her reputation for great deeds. STIKKLESTAD DAY Haymoon (July) 29th Olaf the Lawbreaker (" St. Olaf ") was killed at the battle of Stikklestad on this date in the year 1280 RE Olaf acquired a reputation for killing, maiming, and exiling his fellow Norwegians who would not convert to Christianity, and for carrying an army with him in violation of the law to help him accomplish this repression. Today honor the Asatru martyrs who died rather than to submit to the slavery of the Christ. Also honor the warriors that brought justice to the Lawbreaker. DAY OF REMEMBRANCE FOR RADBOD Harvest (August) 9th On this arbitrarily chosen date, we honor Radbod a king of Frisia who was an early target for Christian missionaries. Just before his baptism ceremony, he asked the clergy what fate his befallen ancestors who died loyal to Asatru. The missionaries replied that Radbod's ancestors were burning in Hell - to which the king replied: " Then I will rather live there with my ancestors than go to heaven with a parcel of beggars. " The baptism was canceled, the aliens expelled, and Frisia remained free of Grey slavery. Drink a horn this day, in memory of Radbod. FREYFAXI Harvest (August) 28th Freyfaxi marked the time of the harvest in Iceland. Dedicated to the God of the harvest, it was time for celebration with horse races, martial sports, and of course a Blot to Freyr and a feast. DAY OF REMEMBERAMCE OF HERMAN OF CHERUSCI Shedding (September) 9th Few mortals have been privileged to serve our Folk, as did Herman, a leader of the tribe called the Cherusci. When he defeated Varus' three Roman legions in the Teutoburg Woods in the year 9 C. E., he blocked our amalgamation into the Mediterranean morass. Herman was very aware of his duties not only as a member of his tribe but also as an Asaman - indeed, the two were probably inseparable with him. Shedding is the ideal time to give him praise, because the crucial battle for which he is remembered was fought during this month. AUTUMN WINTER FINDING Shedding (September) the 21st The Fall Equinox: Summer and Winter balance for a moment and the cold, old man wins - for now. Brace yourself for longer nights and the onset, eventually, of the cold of Winter. Call on Odin for inspiration to get through your personal lean times, whenever they may strike. This is the traditional time for Fall Feast and the celebration of the harvest. DAY OF REMEMBRANCE FOR ERIK THE RED Hunting (October) 8th Praise the stalwart founder of Greenland, and father of Leif, the founder of Vinland. Erik remained loyal to Thor even when his wife left the Gods and refused to sleep with her heathen husband. Pause in memory of Erik today; drink a toast in his honor. No doubt he gets enough warmth in Har's Hall to make up for his wife's coldness. DAY OF REMEMBRANCE FOR LEIF ERIKSON Hunting (October) the 9th This is a day that even the U. S. Government admits we should dedicate to the man who beat Columbus to the shores of Vinland by 500 years. Don't let it slide by quietly - write your local newspapers and share the word with your neighbors. WINTER NIGHTS / VETRARBLOT Hunting (October) 12th In the old Icelandic Calendar, Winter begins on the Satyr's day between Hunting 11th and 17th. Winter Nights celebrates the bounty of the harvest and honors Freya and the fertility spirits called Disir, that she leads (sometimes these beings are thought of as ones female ancestors). So you don't plow the fields? Someone does, or you wouldn't eat! Give glory to Freya and pour a libation of ale, milk, or mead into the soil as an offering to the Disir and the Earth itself. DAY OF REMEMBRANCE FOR QUEEN SIGRITH OF SWEDEN Fogmoon (November) the 9th When Olaf the Lawbreaker had been king of Norway for three years, he asked Queen Sigrith of Sweden to marry him. She agreed, but when he insisted that she give up the Gods Sigrith replied, " I do not mean to abandon the faith I have led, and my kinsmen before me. Nor shall I object to your belief in the god you prefer. " As usual, Heathen tolerance was met with Christian imprecations and a blow to the face. The wedding was off - depriving Olaf of political power that could have sped the Christianization of Scandinavia. Hail Sigrith, defender of Asatru, and women of stubborn virtue! FEAST OF THE EINHERJAR Fogmoon (November) 11th The chosen heroes who sit in Odin's Hall are the Einherjar. Today we honor those dead kin who gave their lives for Family and Folk. If you have friends of relatives who died in battle, visit their graves today. If that is not possible, drink a libation in their memory. THE FEAST OF ULLR Fogmoon (November) the 23rd The Feast of Ullr was to celebrate the Hunt and to gain the personal luck needed for success. Weapons are dedicated on this day to Ullr. If your arms were blessed by the luck of the God of the Hunt, your family and tribe shared the bounty with a Blot and Feast to Ullr. DAY OF REMEMBRANCE FOR EGIL SKALLAGRIMSSON Yule (December) 9th Odin was his God, and the blood of berserks and shape-shifters ran in his family. His lust for gold and for fame was insatiable. Yet the same man was passionately moved by the love of his friends and generously open-handed to those who found his favor. The same brain that seethed with war-fury also composed skaldic poetry capable of calming angry kings. Can it be by accident that Egil followed Odin, the great resolver of paradoxes and riddles? Indeed all Asafolk - but especially those who follow the one-eyed God of battle and magic - can learn much from the life of this amazing man. WINTER MOTHER NIGHT Yule (December) 20th As the night before the Winter Solstice, this is the time when the New Year is born. We honor the beginning of the Sun's return and the breaking of Winter's spell. This is a time to honor Thor and Frey, celebrate by drinking a toast to them. Have a Yule party with family and kindred. Decorate a tree with sunwheel and light a Yule Log. TWELVTH NIGHT Yule (December) 31st This culminates the traditional twelve days of Yule. Each day of which is a month of the preceding year in miniature Reflect on the past year. Take stock and lay a course for the future. Make New Year's resolutions in the old way by swearing your oath on Frey's boar or on your Hammer. CHARMING OF THE PLOW Snowmoon (January) 3rd This is the date of an agricultural ritual performed in Northern Europe, when grain crates were offered for the soil's fertility, and Father Sky and Mother Earth were invoked to that end. Meditate upon your dependence on the soil, and crumble upon the soil a piece of bread (natural or homemade of course) as you call upon Odin, Frigga and the Land Spirits to heal the Earth and to keep it safe From harm. DAY OF REMEMBRANCE FOR RAUD THE STRONG Snowmoon (January) 9th Raud was a land owner in Norway who was put to death by Olaf Tryggvason (Olaf the Slime) far his loyalty to Asatru by having a snake forced down his throat. His lands were of course confiscated in the name of the king and his monks. Raise a horn in honor of Raud and all of our kinsmen who gave their lives rather than submit to the enforced "love" of the empire of the Christians. THORRABLOT Snowmoon (January) 20th This holiday began the Old Norse month of Snorri. It is still observed in Iceland with parties and a mid-winter feast. It is of course sacred to Thor, and the ancient Icelandic Winter spirit, Thorri. On this day we should perform a blot to Thor and invite the mighty Asaman to the Feast. BARRI Horning (February) 2nd This is the day we celebrate the wooing by Frey of the Maiden Gerd, a symbolic marriage of the God of Fertility with the Mother Earth. It is a festival of fertility, of the planted seed and the flowed furrow. For those of you who garden, this is the time to plant seed indoors to later be transplanted into the Summer Garden. DAY OF REMEMBRANCE FOR EYVIND KINNRIFI Horning (February) 9th Olaf tortured him to death by placing a bowl of red-hot embers on his stomach until his body burst open. Eyvind's crime was steadfast loyalty to the Old Gods. FEAST OF VALI Horning (February) 14th This feast was originally celebrated the death of Hodr by Vali. This late Winter festival relates to the triumph of the return of the light of the sun over the dark days of winter. Today in the traditional celebration of the family. A time for the customary exchange of cards and gifts with loved ones. It is also a time for the renewal of marriage vows and an occasion for marriages/handfastings. DAY OF REMEMBRANCE FOR OLIVER THE MARTYR Lenting (March) 9th He was an adherent of Asatru who persisted in organizing underground sacrifices to the Gods despite decrees by Olaf the Lawbreaker forbidding such activities. Betrayed by an informer, he was killed by Olaf's men while preparing for the Spring sacrifice in the village of Maerin, Norway. Many other men whose names are lost to us were killed, mutilated, or exiled for taking part in these sacrifices. HIGH FEAST OF OSTARA Lenting (March) 21st This is the Spring Equinox. The end of Winter and the beginning of the season of rebirth. Today we honor Frigga, Freya and Nerthus. Pour a libatian of mead onto the Earth; celebrate the rebirth of nature, Asatru, and the new hopes of the Folk. |