Ostara: Celebrating the Spring Equinox

Ostara is a Sabbat of the Wheel of the Year, also known as the Spring Equinox. It is a moment of balance and harmony, as we leave behind the darkness of winter and step into the light of spring. 

Celebrated this year on March 20th, Ostara is a celebration of renewal, growth, and balance in nature. Like Imbolc before it, Ostara is considered a Sabbat of light, marking the turning point towards the brighter half of the year. It is a time when light and darkness exist in perfect equilibrium before the days begin to lengthen, and the balance finally shifts in favour of the light.  

Signs of Spring 

Some signs of spring are easy to spot: the first daffodils lining our footpaths, or the purple crocuses pushing up through the earth. Others take a moment to notice, such as waking to the sound of birdsong—something greatly missed during the winter months, yet whose slow return makes it feel as though it never truly left.  

After the quiet stillness of winter, these small details bring a gentle sense of renewal, as nature gradually awakens from her winter slumber. You may have already noticed your first butterfly in the fields, or the frisky rabbits bravely returning to their playful ways.  

While some signs of spring are loud, others feel like a quiet calling - a whisper that life is stirring once more. The first butterflies, for example, are a symbol of transformation. Emerging from their chrysalis and warmed by the early sun, they prepare for their next stage of existence. In this way, the butterfly reflects the changes unfolding all around us and gently encourages an awakening within ourselves.  

In the light of the early spring sun, the first flowers have already begun to appear, symbolising growth and fresh starts. Like the butterfly, these early signs of spring remind us that nature is entering a new chapter. They invite us, too, to step into the next season with a sense of renewal - embracing opportunities for growth, new beginnings and transformation.  

Further signs from Nature include the aforementioned rabbits as they begin their seasonal dance, symbolising abundance and fertility, while nests are built to cradle eggs – a sign of new beginnings and the creation of life. 

Around every corner, there are signs of life beginning to appear, awakened by the spring sun and renewed from winter’s slumber, like stories waiting to be told. 

How to Celebrate  

Also known as the Spring Equinox, Ostara is a time to breathe life into ourselves and our surroundings, as we dust off the shadows of winter and step into the light of a spring. It is a potent opportunity to express gratitude for the lessons learned during the colder months, and to begin the new season with a renewed sense of purpose and growth.  

A notable tradition at this time of year is the annual spring clean, where we refresh our space and bring life back into our sanctuaries. During Ostara the deeper clean begins within, releasing the things that hold us back, letting go of emotional clutter, and to creating space for new beginnings to take root. It is a time to welcome positive change and growth into our lives.

Above all else, remember that Ostara is a Sabbat of light and should be celebrated by spending time outside, enjoying the sunshine and all that spring has to offer. Use this time to reconnect with nature, absorb natural light, and give reverence to the life-affirming energy of the renewed sun.  

Blossoming Ostara Altar 

One of my favourite things to do at any Sabbat is to align my home with the season and create a beautiful Altar, and Ostara is no different. Bringing the blossoming beauty of spring into my home is a sacred moment that I thoroughly enjoy.  

The Ostara Altar radiates with the joyous colours of spring, bringing such happiness into the home, it is a joyful ritual to start the season. From the glorious yellow of sunlight to the verdant green hue of fresh grass, each colour is represented within this sacred space.  

Within color symbolism for Ostara we know that, yellow represents the life-affirming energy of the sun, green signifies the promise of new growth, pink embodies new life, and white symbolises balance and purity. Upon my altar I display these colors with candlesticks, whose flames symbolise the renewed energy of the sun.  

Other items may include eggshells, butterfly pendants, and fresh spring flowers collected on my nature walks with Betty. I may also include a sun and moon charm to represent the equinox, and other items that represent balance and harmony. Each item included should speak to you and resonate with the themes of Ostara.

For crystals I turn to Golden Healer Quartz, Citrine and Green Aventurine – each embodying the themes of Ostara in their own, unique ways.  

Final Thoughts

When my altar is cleansed and arranged, I find myself at peace – aligned to the calm, hopeful energy of spring. I like to spend time here with my journal, holding myself accountable and set seasonal intentions cantered on renewal, rebirth, and new beginnings.  

Ostara, for me, brings a hopefulness unlike other Sabbats, it is a time of optimism, looking forward and focusing on the new beginnings which unfurl before me. Spring is a joyful awakening and a sacred celebration of life... How does Ostara make you feel? Let me know in the comments!