↟ Vetrnætr – Winter Nights ↟

The ancient tradition named Vetrnætr (Winter Nights) occurs today. In the Ynglingasaga by Snorri Sturluson a blót called Winter Nights is mentioned. The Winter Nights Blót is referred as the first blót of Odin, and occurs on this day, three full moons before our Heathen Jul (Yule). This blót marks the beginning of the winter half year, and is one of the most important celebrations in our old heathen calendar.

The dates changes annually according to the full moon, and in our current Gregorian calendar, the first day of winter is considered to be the 14th of October here in Scandinavia. Winter Nights and the more famous Álfablót, is two separate blóts and do not occur at the same time. Álfablót is a private gathering for family and relatives, and occurs at the next full moon this year in Scandinavia.

In the Icelandic sources the Dísablót is also mentioned in connection with Winter Nights. But the Winter Nights Blót is mainly dedicated to a good year ahead as well as to the winter gods such as Ullr, Odin and Skaði, and is the very starting point for the winter half year and the first day of winter. This blót lasts for three days starting today: on the night of the full moon – which today also is the third Super Moon of the year. Blessed Winter Nights Blót everyone! 🌕