Lighting the Earth Candles

2 February 2026

We mark the halfway point between the Winter Solstice and the Spring Equinox by pouring and lighting earth candles.

Tradition has it that the wax used is from the stub ends of the candles used through the darkest part of the year. The melted wax is poured into a small depression in ground. The hardy members of the community gathered in the rain to pour the candles in the later morning. Then, at sunset, everyone returned to light the candles, again in the rain.

According to the folklore, if it is raining then Winter is on the wane...

The lit earth candle

Community gather in the rain

Andrew helped by two workshop leaders, poor the wax.

The Earth Candle near the Drumour Lodge entrance.

Snowdrops are the first flowers to appear