Once a year, there is a time when time itself seems to stand still. Order is suspended as the fate-thread of the world is rewoven. Dreams and visions during this period are considered prophetic. The veil between worlds is thin, making communication with spirits, gods, and ancestors easier than at any other time. It is a period of reflection, divination, and ritual cleansing.

This time is called the Rauhnächte. In English, this word translates to Rough Nights, though this literal translation barely captures its depth. Some say that the word rauh in Rauhnächte is also connected to raunen—a mystical way of speaking tied to magic, spells, secrets, and prophecy.

As the fate-thread of the world is rewoven, we can engage in ancient traditions and magical practices to weave our own future—and the future of the world—with intention. What do we dare to dream during this time? Which dreams come to us? Remember, all are considered prophetic.

Each of the twelve magical nights, from December 25th to January 6th, is said to be connected with one month of the year ahead. What we dream on the sixth night, for example, reveals insights about June of the following year. It is common to divinate during this time to gain understanding of each month ahead. By asking for omens or drawing tarot or oracle cards, paired with focused intention, we can co-create the fate that awaits us.

The Rauhnächte are a liminal time—one of the most magically potent periods of the year. We have the opportunity to reset, cleanse our body, mind, and heart. Ritual purification also extends to our hearth, home, and land, ensuring that our interior world reflects our exterior world. This is often done with the smoke of herbs gathered during the summer solstice and equinox, other magically potent times of the year.

This is a living tradition. In a world that feels increasingly uncertain, it offers a balm to the anxious mind, providing inner resources, peace, and the energy to participate actively in life—even when circumstances feel beyond our control. We can always choose how we meet fate.

If you are interested in experiencing the transformative magic of the Rauhnächte, join us this year on our annual journey through the Mysteries of the Wild Nights.