What are some winter solstice rituals?

Some winter solstice rituals include lighting the Yule log and the ringing of bells. The feast associated with the winter solstice includes the favorite foods of the family with a cake or pie with a sun image on it to represent the rising of the sun out of darkness.

When lighting the Yule log, a large space is needed for the bonfire and a very dry log should be used so it burns quickly. Each member of the family can throw holly sprigs into the fire to say goodbye to the solar year. The ringing of bells symbolizes the ringing out of the old year and the ringing in of the new year. The family can gather in a circle with the leader talking about the importance of the solstice before the bells ring.