Ostara, also known as the spring equinox, is one of the Pagan sabbats. This Pagan holiday falls between March 20 and 22 every year. On this day the hours of day and night are the same. In the upcoming days light starts to conquer dark. It is a time to celebrate the coming of spring, fertility, and personal growth. The following are some activities for families to enjoy together on Ostara.
Bless seeds
Spring is a time to plant herbs, vegetables, and flowers. Take some time as a family to bless any seeds that will be planted during the spring. If it’s not too early, plant the seeds that need to grow into plants before planting them in the ground. Put them where they will be safe and receive the light they need until it is time to put them in the garden.
Fun with eggs
Eggs are a symbol of the Ostara sabbat. Dye or paint eggs using pastel colors. When the eggs are dry, paint Pagan symbols on them using thing tipped paintbrushes. Place the eggs in a basket on the table. A small basket of eggs could be used as an altar decoration for the Ostara ritual.
Have an egg hunt. You can hide dyed eggs and plastic eggs with special treats inside. Parents can hide the eggs the night before or before the children get out of bed. Special treats that can go in the plastic eggs include; candy, coins, jewelry, and magical stones.
Color
Dig out the crayons and markers and print some coloring pages. Spend some time coloring pictures of Ostara symbols such as rabbits and eggs. Parents and children may also enjoy printing and coloring Ostara egg holders.
Have a big breakfast
Cooking a hearty family breakfast is a good way to start of the Ostara sabbat. Fry up some ham and eggs. Bake a loaf of sweet bread the night before and have toast and jam with breakfast. Hot cross buns are another bread recipe that would go nicely with ham and eggs.
The altar and ritual
Decorate the altar as a family. Be sure to use eggs and rabbits as symbols. The children will like these. Spring flowers, if there are any available, are also a good altar decoration. Pick up fabric at the store with rabbits and/or eggs printed on it. Use that as the altar cloth.
Have a family ritual. Children will love to participate in this part of the Ostara sabbat. This is a good way to teach them about casting the circle and other ritual parts.
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