Autumn / Winter is a season of festivals of light in the northern hemisphere. It is a beautiful season with its crisp air, foggy mornings, and vibrant colours. But it is also a season for Seasonal Affective Disorder and winter depression. People are affected by a lack of natural light. In many cultures, people gather together, light up decorative lights and fires and throw up parties.
The season of a celebration of a victory of light over darkness
This is a season of celebration of a victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. Festivals like Diwali, Lantern Festival of Light, ancient Samhain, Halloween, Guy Fawkes Night, etc are a very important part of human history and well-being. All their festivals last for few days and are most important in the old calendars. According to History.com, Samhain is a pagan religious festival originating from an ancient Celtic spiritual tradition. During this time of year, hearth fires in family homes were left to burn out while the harvest was gathered. Druid priests light a community fire using a wheel that would cause friction and spark flames. The wheel was considered a representation of the sun and was used along with prayers.
10 Dazzling Light Festivals To See In London This Winter
Few things warm the winter cockles like a light festival. Strolling through enchantingly illuminated gardens and forests after dark, wrapped up in your winter woolies, hot chocolate in hand, is a top-notch way to spend a winter evening. Here's our pick of the best light and illumination festivals in and around London for Christmas 2022.
To help you celebrate in style we collected ideas for an unforgettable Bonfire Night Party at home
If you celebrate this festival of light at home, gather family and friends and make a Bonfire Night Party. Light up the lights, serve mulled wine, cook some tasty food, and watch the fireworks (we advise using silent fireworks to protect the wildlife and vulnerable).
Bring out Blankets and cushions
If you are throwing a garden party to gather around the fire, don't forget about blankets. Keep warm and cosy in your garden with our picks of the best blankets and throws. Perfect for lounging and wrapping up tight when the temperature drops. Have your fire pit going to toast marshmallows and snuggle up under blankets outside and watch all the fireworks around.
Set up a Fire Pit
If your garden is on the smaller side, a fire pit is an adorable mini homage to Bonfire Night. If you’re having a more intimate gathering, set up chairs around the fire pit and provide guests with marshmallows to toast together as you share stories and enjoy the fresh November air. Pick your fancy from lovely fire pits available on the market. They are great in the garden year-round. Here are few of our favourites:
Fiat lux! Bring the Lights
Jonny Brierley, CEO, Moda Furnishing, says: 'Lighting is absolutely essential for setting the scene and creating a cosy ambiance outdoors. Whether it’s warm hanging lights or a glowing table lamp, the use of soft lighting is crucial for creating a warming atmosphere, especially during the cold winter months. Alongside softer-use upholstery and accessories such as warming throws and cushions, people are now bringing the inside out to create the most comfortable atmosphere for family and friends.'
