Halloween—and for some, Samhain—is the ideal time to reconnect with our magical practice. Seasonally, on the Wheel of the Year, we’re at that magical sweet spot between Mabon (Fall Equinox) and Yule (Winter Solstice).

The veils between the realms of the living and the dead are thin, opening up chances to connect with those on the other side in more profound and personal ways.  It’s a prime opportunity to connect deeply with our Ancestors and the spirit world, inviting their wisdom and presence into our lives.

What I cherish about this season is the warmth it brings to the topic of death—something often met with fear and avoidance in the Western world, yet inevitable for us all. As we connect with those on the other side, we’re reminded of life’s preciousness and the comforting truth that we’re never truly alone. Embracing the spirit world can teach us how to live as fully as possible and as authentically as we can.

This season also encourages us to reflect on goals accomplished, tie up loose ends, and prepare for the introspective months ahead. Samhain, occurring from October 31 to November 1 on the calendar, often has a lingering potency that can be felt weeks before and after. How will you honour the sacred this Samhain? Here are a few ideas to inspire you.

First Things First

If you feel pressure to “get it right” with your rituals, I invite you to release any sort of perfectionist expectations and instead turn towards curiosity and a light touch. Not every ritual needs chanting, bonfires, or an invocation to the Goddess. Some of my most powerful rituals were simple gestures that arose spontaneously.

Magic doesn’t ask us to be perfect, but it does ask us to show up as truthfully as we can.

With all of that in mind, everything below is a suggestion. Be sure to follow what feels right for you.

5 Simple Ways to Honour Samhain

Preparation

Honouring ancestors extends beyond blood lineage. Artists, writers, mentors, and other figures who’ve shaped us or touched our lives are just as meaningful in Samhain rituals.

To prepare, sweep away any stagnant energy and create a space for renewal. Work with an element that resonates with you, such as smoke or water, to clear and purify your energy and space.

Do whatever else you need to do to create sacred space.

Create an Ancestor Altar or Wall

Set up an altar on a table or wall with photos, heirlooms, or symbols representing loved ones who have passed. Light candles, leave offerings (like food or drink they enjoyed) and spend a few moments in quiet reflection or conversation. This can be as simple or elaborate as feels right for you.

Gather Over a Seasonal Meal

Share a meal with loved ones or spend time alone preparing a seasonal dish featuring apples, pumpkins, root vegetables, and your favourite spices. Set a place at the table for ancestors, lighting candles and speaking their names aloud to welcome their presence as you dine.

Weave, Sew, or Embroider (or Be!) a Sigil

If you feel inspired, create a sigil that represents qualities or experiences you want to invite into your life and the world. This sigil can take the form of a word, phrase, icon, or image—whatever resonates with you. Let your creativity guide each stitch, weave, or stroke.

As you work, focus your attention on the energy you’re weaving into the world. Whisper the word or phrase like it’s a love song, allowing your intention to flow into each movement. This act of creation becomes a tangible expression of your wish, woven with your hands and heart.

If creative work doesn’t feel right at the moment, try writing down keywords and phrases in your journal, and repeating them out loud like affirmations. Or hold a specific symbol in your mind as you choose to respond differently in a challenging situation. When it comes down to it, you are the altar and the spell.

Create a Fire For Release

Ok, I know I said that not every ritual includes a bonfire or chanting, but lighting a fire is a powerful Samhain tradition, especially as the Scorpio New Moon aligns with this year’s Samhain on November 1. Fire is an element of transformation, making it ideal for releasing old patterns.

If you have access to a safe outdoor space for a bonfire, fireplace or a small cauldron, awesome. If you don’t, rip what you write down into tiny pieces, use a lighter to add fuel and then dump it into a fire-safe container.

Start the fire and write down habits, dynamics, or roles you’re ready to let go of. As you focus on releasing them, cast them into the flames.

Walk (or dance!) clockwise around the fire, visualizing yourself stepping into a healthier, renewed way of being.

You may also wish to say:

“I release the lies and what is no longer true.
I release everything that is not mine to hold or carry.
I welcome new insights, experiences, and people aligned with my true self.
I invite opportunities for expansion.
And so it is.”

Work with Divination

With the veil between worlds at its thinnest, Samhain is a perfect time for tarot, oracle, or scrying sessions. Explore themes for the coming year, seek messages from ancestors, or gain insights into current challenges. If you have a special deck or a meaningful journal, this is the time to bring them out.

For those with Moon in My Tarot Journals, turn to the New Moon in Scorpio spread. Use the prompts to explore this season’s transition: What needs to be cleared? What is this new moon bringing in? Which of my well and beloved ancestors are showing up for me and what messages are they relaying during this time?