MAJOR ÁSATRÚ HOLIDAYS

 Vetrnætr, the Winter Nights, is a fascinating and deeply rooted ritual celebrated in heathen traditions.  The name Vetrnætr is Old Norse composed of two words – vetr meaning winter, and nætr – the plural form of nátt – meaning nights. Vetrnætr is celebrated three full moons before Yule.

During Vetrnætr, many gods and entities were worshipped. Dísir and Elves were also worshipped to bolster the meaning of the ritual, blessings for a good year.   

The focal point of Vetrnætr would often be the blót itself, a solemn and sacred offering to the deities. With great care and respect, the participants would prepare a feast of the season's harvest, including fruits, grains, vegetables, and freshly slaughtered livestock. 

As the gathered community shared in the communal feast, they would express their gratitude to the gods, particularly those associated with the harvest, such as Freyr and Freyja. Prayers and songs would fill the air, intertwining with laughter and joyous conversations, as they celebrated the abundance bestowed upon them. The old prayer was til árs ok friðar, “for a good year and frith (peace)”.