Last weekend, Earthspirit offered their winter gathering, Feast of Lights. Subtitled as a “a midwinter celebration of spirit, hope, community, and the arts”, it was a grand offering in all of these aspects. Held in a conveniently located hotel, the accommodations were reasonable, and the staff were friendly and glad to see us.
It was the first time in this location, and the new venue seemed to be a marked improvement from former years. The layout of the conference rooms had a cozy feel, and the central location of the vendors area created a community hub area, so often lacking in hotel festivals. One of the good things about indoor festivals is that they are less environmentally challenging than camping in the woods. Comfy private sleeping areas, personal bathrooms, and climate control make for a bunch of happy pagans!
The workshop offerings were varied and numerous. A good balance of talk and action, cerebral and physical. There were also workshops geared towards diverse age groups, and a wonderful cooperative parents group that made sure both the kids and parents enjoyed themselves.
The focal event of the gathering was the Stag King’s Masque, with many people arriving just for this part of the event. People really got into it, and there were some  beautiful and creative costumes. The ball opened with some opulent ritual theater, snow maidens dancing, stags battling, a snow queen’s blessing and the crowning of the Stag King. Then the dance floor opened up for all to enjoy, and they did, into the wee hours of the night.
All in all, the warmth and luxury of Feast of Lights is what keeps me coming back. At this point, I can imagine no better way to celebrate the birth of the spark of Imbolc than with beloveds consciously gathered with that intent.