Ostara
Ostara is one of the eight solar holidays or
sabbatss 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.