How to Make a Samhain Gift Basket

Samhain, pronounced like “sow when,” is a sabbat, or major holiday celebrated in modern Paganism on October 31. It is often called the “Pagan New Year.” Much like its secular partner, Halloween, Samhain traces its roots back to the ancient traditions of Celtic Pagans. For modern Pagans, Samhain is a day of reverence. It marks the death of the sun god who will be reborn on the solstice. It is also considered to be the day when the worlds of the living and dead have little separating them, permitting ghosts and spirits to commingle with the living on earth. Many modern Pagans leave offerings of food and treats to feed the spirits of deceased loved ones who may be traversing nearby. Making a Samhain gift basket is a great way to show Pagan friends how much you respect and care about them.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Gift basket
• Kindling
• Fire logs
• Matches
• Candles
• Water bottles
• Small breads, cookies and treats

1. Select a gift basket. Ideally, select a basket either made from recyclable materials or safe to burn. Many Pagans have, host or attend Samhain bonfires. Some bonfires are small, while others may be large, organized events.

2. Make kindling bundles. Thin, dry sticks can be bundled up and tied with butcher’s string or twine. If the bundles are large, consider transporting them in paper grocery bags. Include matches with the kindling bundles if they do not fit into the basket.

3. Select a few pieces of firewood to contribute to a bonfire. Check with the municipality for restrictions on transporting firewood from city to city or county to county in your area. Some localities strictly prohibit the transfer of logs and will make those who do so face fines or other penalties.

4. Make cookies and quick breads. Wrap in plastic wrap or zipper bags to keep fresh and safe.

5. Include large water bottles. Water is always a good idea near a bonfire, whether for drinking or safety’s sake.

6. Deliver the gift basket the day before Samhain. This will keep from disrupting the recipient’s holiday plans and give her an opportunity to select items for use in her holiday observance.

Tips & Warnings

• A card is not necessary for a Samhain gift basket, especially one that might be consumed by flames. If you want to buy a card, however, it might be easier to find one online.
• Candles are always a great choice when it comes to gift giving for a Pagan. For Samhain, chose black, white or orange.