Leodis Pagan Circle hosts open rituals to celebrate the Greater Sabbats at Imbolc, Beltane, Lammas and Samhain.

The rituals are simple and broad-based because they're designed to cater for people who follow several different paths. Bearing in mind it isn't always easy to find a group who will accept newcomers, not everyone who follows a solitary path does so by choice so the open rituals are an excellent way for people to honour the changing of the seasons in a friendly communal setting. 

The rituals are held outdoors because we're particularly lucky in Leeds to have easy access to a modern stone circle.   Unfortunately, because the rituals are held in the open air, we do fall victim to the vagaries of the English weather. We don't let the wind and rain stop us though - we just go ahead and hold the ritual anyway. The people who come to the rituals are extremely tolerant of the ways in which we are tested by the Elements and the atmosphere is always a happy (if sometimes chilly) one. 

The actual rituals last for approximately 1 hour but, depending on the weather and the time of year, we often hang around afterwards to share a picnic or head for the pub. We don't usually linger during the darker evenings but the circle looks magnificent when it's all lit up (especially at Samhain when everyone brings a pumpkin lantern!). 

There's no particular dress code but some of us do dress in robes and cloaks (often with thermals underneath) - the area is open to the public though so we get some strange looks from dog walkers.  Also, it's advisable to wear stout footwear during inclement weather because the area can be a tad muddy.    We don't want to put you off by banging on about the weather but it's best to avoid surprises by being forewarned.  During the lighter, warmer months the circle is a glorious place to spend an evening but, rest assured, the colder, darker ones can be just as magickal.

There's no need to be nervous if you think you won't know what to do or that everyone else will be much more experienced.  We often have newcomers join us and we'll guide you through the whole process so you won't feel excluded.  You're welcome to take an active part in the ceremony if you'd like to but it's equally acceptable to just turn up and watch.  If you'd like to bring anything with you to place on the altar (eg, flowers or something representing the relevant season), they will be a very welcome addition. 

Below are some photos taken at previous rituals.  The faces of the people have been blurred to protect their anonymity on t'Net.