Celebrating Lughnasadh, Pagan Witches w/ Rachel Patterson, Jessica Howard, Lucya Starza, Katie Ness
What does Lughnasadh, also known as Lammas, mean to modern Pagans and witches? Is it just about baking bread, honouring Lugh, and celebrating the first harvest, or does this ancient festival offer something deeper than tradition? For this Lughnasadh special, Rachel Patterson talks with Jessica Howard, Lucya Starza, and Katie Ness in a relaxed conversation about how each of them celebrates this time of year. They discuss everything from baking bread and making corn dollies to river offerings, foraging, journaling, working with deities, and simple seasonal magic. Each guest shares personal stories, practical tips, and thoughts on what this festival means today. They also talk about how changes in the seasons and climate can affect traditional celebrations, why gratitude matters more than obligation, and how it's fine if your practice is different from others. Whether this is your first Lughnasadh or you’ve celebrated for years, you’ll find ideas here to help you connect with the land, the harvest, and the changing seasons. In this episode, you'll learn:
The differences between Lughnasadh and Lammas, and where the names come from
Traditional first harvest customs, bread baking and loaf blessings
Ways to celebrate with simple, meaningful rituals
How offerings, gratitude and abundance can become part of your seasonal practice
The role of Lugh, Belisama, Hekate, Rhiannon, Isis and other deities in personal practice
Foraging, flower pressing, corn dollies and other seasonal crafts
Seasonal spellwork for abundance, gratitude and reflection
Why many witches adapt their practice around nature rather than fixed calendar dates
Journaling, magical reflection and following the changing rhythm of the year
The importance of spending time outdoors and building a deeper connection with the land
No matter how you celebrate the first harvest, Lughnasadh is a time to pause, notice what has grown, give thanks for what you have, and get ready for the slow shift toward autumn. This conversation offers thoughtful insights, practical ideas, and lots of laughter. If you like talking about Paganism, witchcraft, folklore, seasonal festivals, and magical practice, please like, subscribe, and leave a comment to share how you celebrate Lughnasadh or Lammas. We’d love to hear about your traditions.
