Winter faeries can be found in the crackle of a roaring log fire, the tip of an icicle or whirling merrily in a falling snowflake. Working with faeries takes patience and respect, but once a healthy relationship has been established, much magic can be made!
Who are the Winter Faeries?
There are many faeries associated with winter. Hag faeries begin to appear after Halloween, the crone goddesses of winter, while Father Frost begins spreading ice and snow in Russia.
Once Yule arrives, the faeries come out in force. Many are gift-givers, particularly in Scandinavia and Germany. The most famous of all is Father Christmas, while other generous faeries include the Icelandic Jola Sveinar and Befana of Italy.
The Greek Callicantzaroi fairies gather together to celebrate Winter Solstice, vanishing on Twelfth Night. Jubuk of Iceland visits houses at Christmas, while Frau Hölle rides the skies between Christmas and Twelfth Night. The Wild Hunt rides out into England, and in Orkney, Trows depart the Underworld to dance.
The Cailleach Bheur, or Winter Hag of Scotland, maintains her icy grip until Beltane, when she finally gives up her claim and allows summer to chase away the winter. Until then, she walks the Highlands in ragged blue robes, bearing a holly staff and a crow perched on one shoulder.
Working with Jack Frost
Many shy away from the icy touch of frost faeries, but take the time to admire the intricate work of this active winter fairy, and Jack Frost will reward gifts of hope and joy. Other frost Fey include Father Frost, the soul of winter, who brings Russian children gifts at New Year and coats the trees with snow.
Ice and Snow Faeries
Every icicle, snowflake and powdered tree branch bears an enchanted faerie. Work with these magical beings of nature to contemplate the meanings of winter, which brings us change, new beginnings, and the hope of light after the darkness.
The Snow Queen
Working with faerie queens is the next step in working with the Fey. One such queen is the Snow Queen. Her influence is very awe-inspiring, for her beauty is tempered with the danger of ice and winter, and consequently she is very powerful. She can unlock unconscious dreams and desires, and help see those dreams become reality. To work with this faerie queen, manifest the desire by leaving her offerings, meditating and visualising her, and asking for her guidance.
The Holly King
It is also possible to work with faerie kings. Traditionally, the Holly King rules over the waning year, from midsummer to midwinter, when he gives way to the Oak King. Holly was sacred to the druids, who brought it inside during winter to shelter the faeries. The spirit of holly is a guardian and warrior, granting strength to those who work with him, as well as awakening healing abilities and resolving spiritual struggles. Mediate by a holly bush to receive warnings or encouragement about questions or problems.
Fire Faeries
Winter is not just a time for traditional Christmas fairies. What better time to work with fire faeries, than when fires are burning brightly in every home? Fire is change, bringing both creation and destruction. Without fire, the world would lie cold and inactive. Fire Fey, known collectively as Salamanders, can move people onto new phases, inspiring passion and creativity, leading to abundance and fulfilment. Appearing in everything from candle flames to roaring fires, sunbeams to mighty volcanoes, fire faeries can help in meeting life’s challenges – perfect for the season of change.
Embrace the cold season, and let the faeries reveal the magical enchantment of winter!
References:
Eason, Cassandra. A Complete Guide to Fairies and Magical Beings. Piatkus, 2001
Franklin, Ann and Mason, Paul. Fairy Lore. Capall Bann, 1999
Geddes-Ward, Alicen and Neil. Faeriecraft. Hay House UK, 2005
Moorey, Teresa. The Fairy Bible. Godsfield Press, 2008
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