Wicca is a misunderstood religion. The definition of Wicca is: "A modern Pagan religion with spiritual roots in the earliest expression of reverence for nature," (Herne). Wiccans don't believe in the existence of the devil, or Satan, they believe in turn that "...Satan is a Christian creation," (Herne). In the United States there are over 200,000 practicing Wiccans. This number gets bigger every year. Some Wiccans worship in groups, called covens, or as solitary practitioners. Wicca has many mixed sects. These sects, and covens, are individual with varied worshipping styles and celebrations. Wicca celebrates nature, and the powers within nature. Most respect and honor all life as a part of Earth. However, the main beliefs of Wicca remain true throughout all of them.
             As part of Wicca, there are eight major celebrations in a year. These events are called "Sabbats". The Wiccan Sabbats are Samhain or All Hallows Eve, Yule or Winter Solstice, Candlemas or Imbolc, Ostara or Spring Equinox, Beltane or May Day, Litha or Summer Solstice, Lammas or Lughnasadh, and Mabon or Fall Equinox. These have been phrased this way since the Wiccan year runs from October 31 through October 30th. The actual dates can vary from coven to coven, and change between hemispheres. Wiccans believe strongly in nature, and the Sabbats and Esbats keep them in tune with nature. Each of the Sabbats has a special meaning in Wicca. Actual celebrations and rituals vary between covens. Generally, these gatherings are held at night, and depending on the coven, may last all night long.
             Samhain is the Witches New Years Celebration. To the world outside Wicca, this day is known as Halloween. This is the Celtic New Year, as well as the end of "...the Goddess ruled summer, and marks the arrival of the God ruled winter," (Dunwich, 32). In this time you prepare for rebirth. You get rid of the things in your life that are troubling ...