Winter Solstice at Casa Itzatna

Celebrate the midwinter magick of the longest night of the year with an intimate dinner at Casa ITZATNA. Let’s gather together to honour the turning of the seasons, embrace the warmth of community, and welcome the returning light. This special dinner marks the last in our series as we bid farewell to Casa ITZATNA after 4 long years as our creative home - so don’t miss out! 

Together we will cross-pollinate our shared and respected traditions of ‘Yule’ (Pagan Winter Solstice), ‘Panquetzaliztli’ (‘Raising of the Banners’ festival for the Mexica-Nahua) and the ‘Posadas’ (modern Mexican Christmas celebrations). 

Event Schedule (TBC):

17:00 - 19:00 – Mexican Winter Solstice Feast: £25 per person - **Pre-Booking Essential!**

19:00 - 21:00 – Winter Solstice Rituals, Crafts & Raffle Bar: Pay What You Can/Donations

What To Expect:

- A seasonal Mexican feast featuring hearty, festive dishes and warming drinks 

- Traditional Anglo-European and Prehispanic Mexican rituals and crafts 

- Cozy ambience with candlelight, friendly company and good cheer!  

- Space to share stories, gratitude, magick craft and connection  

Please come as you are, or dress in festive winter attire. Feel free to bring a small token for our communal altar, such as a sprig of greenery, a candle, or something meaningful to you. If the weather stays crisp and dry, we will try and light a Solstice bonfire in the garden! 

Accessibility at Casa ITZATNA:

Casa Itzatna indoor venue is accessible from the ground floor with 1 step into the house and a narrow corridor to the main living room area and toilet/bathroom.

We regret to announce that the back garden at Casa Itzatna is not accessible due to multiple concrete steps down to the main garden area.

If you have any access requirements please email us contact[at]itzatna[dot]org or message us on our socials

Pagan Yule: History and Traditions  

Yule, celebrated during the Winter Solstice, originates from ancient pagan traditions in Northern Europe. It marks the rebirth of the Sun and the return of longer days. Rituals include lighting candles and Yule logs to symbolise light overcoming darkness, decorating with evergreens like holly and ivy for eternal life, and feasting to honour the Earth’s abundance. Modern practices often blend these ancient customs with seasonal festivities like gift-giving and carolling, reflecting the joy and renewal of the season.  

Panquetzaliztli: History and Traditions

Panquetzaliztli, meaning “Raising of Banners,” was a Mexica-Nahua (‘Aztec’) festival honouring Huitzilopochtli, the hummingbird god of the Sun and war. Celebrated in December, it marked the winter harvest and the victory of light over darkness. Communities would erect banners, prepare offerings, and gather for ceremonial dances and feasts. Rituals included crafting paper decorations, offering maize-based dishes, and lighting fires, symbolizing renewal and strength. Though Panquetzaliztli faded with the arrival of European influences, its themes of community and light resonate in Mexican traditions like Las Posadas.  

Mexican ‘Posadas’: History and Traditions

Las Posadas, celebrated from December 16th to 24th, reenact Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter before the birth of Jesus. Rooted in Spanish Catholic traditions and indigenous Mexican influences, Posadas involve nightly processions, where participants carry candles and sing as they go from house to house. Each evening ends with festive gatherings featuring piñatas, food like tamales and ‘ponche’ (alcoholic fruit punch), and prayers. The Posadas blend faith, family, and community, embodying themes of hospitality and hope during the holiday season.