The major celebrations of Wicca are known as "Sabbats." These holy days are separated into "Quarters," the four major agricultural and pastoral festivals, and "Cross-Quarters," the four minor festivals which honor the solstices and equinoxes. Wiccan celebrations help participants attune with the cycles of life, death, and rebirth that are reflected in the changing of the seasons and the different energies of the year.

1. Samhain (October 31): This most important festival is considered the Wiccan New Year and the night on which the veil separating the living and the dead is thinnest. This is a time for remembering the dead, honoring one's ancestors, and letting go of grief and pain in order to begin the year without past burdens.
   
   
2. Yule (December 21-23 - varies): This day is also called the Winter Solstice and is the shortest day of the year; it is the day in which the Goddess gives birth to the God. It is a time of joy and celebration, a return of hope and light in the cold darkness of winter.
   
   
3. Imbolc (February 2): Also known as Candlemas, Bridgit, or Lady Day, Imbolc traditionally honored the lactation of farm animals and is still celebrated today to bless animals, the home, and the first signs of light and life that herald the return of spring.
   
   
4. Ostara (March 21-23): The Vernal or Spring Equinox is a day of joy and revelry, and many of the activities associated with the Christian Easter (such as picnicking and egg dyeing and hunting) began with this pagan festival that celebrates the union of the Goddess and God.
   
   
5. Beltane (May 1): Beltane is the celebration of fertility, sexuality, and life. It is also known as Roodmas or May Day.
   
   
6. Litha (June 21-23): At the Summer Solstice, the longest day of the year, light is at its greatest power. This holiday celebrates the heat and fecundity of the earth and the powers of the strength-giving midsummer fires.
   
   
7. Lunasa (August 1): This festival celebrates the first harvest and is especially associated with grain and bread. The year is waning, and Wiccans begin to gather their harvest (both literally and metaphorically) and think about the winter ahead.
   
   
8. Mabon (September 21-23): This holiday is the Autumnal Equinox, the beginning of fall and the second harvest. It is a time of discarding practices and situations that are no longer viable and sharing the fruits of the harvest with others so that all may thrive.