Yule

Yule, or Yuletide, is a traditional winter festival originating among the Germanic peoples. The name derives from Old English geóla or jól in Old Norse, reflecting a celebration around the winter solstice. Historically, Yule was observed around the solstice, roughly December 21–22 in the solar calendar, and the festival could extend for several days, sometimes described as a twelve-day season in medieval and early modern times. The rituals emphasized light and warmth during the darkest days, including gatherings, feasting, and the burning of the Yule log to symbolize the return of the sun. Evergreen branches, the Yule tree, holly, and mistletoe were common decorations, later influencing Christmas symbolism.

With Christianization, many Yule customs were absorbed into Christmas, and the term “Yule” became largely a literary or regional reference to the Christmas season. In modern English, Yuletide is used as a seasonal term independent of religious observance. Contemporary usage typically falls into two strands: historical-cultural references to the pre-Christian festival and religious observance by neopagan and Heathen groups, such as some strands of Wicca and Ásatrú, who celebrate the solstice with rites and shared meals.

Overall, Yule denotes a family of winter celebration traditions centered on light, renewal, and community during the solstice period, with enduring influence on modern Christmas customs.