Ostara

Ostara is one of the eight solar holidays or sabbats of Neopaganism. It is celebrated on the spring equinox, in the northern hemisphere circa March 21 and in the southern hemisphere circa September 21. The name may refer to an ancient Germanic goddess named Eostre; this name was used in English when the equinox was adapted for the Paschal holiday, and was converted to Easter, in German Ostern.

The holiday is a celebration of spring and growth; traditional decorations include budding boughs, flowers, and decorated eggs.

Among the sabbats, it is preceded by Imbolc and followed by Beltane.

See also Wheel of the Year.