Lethbridge’s Society of Pagan Fellowship presents Pagan Fest 2024, now in its second year. The event takes place July 13 at Galt Gardens from 12-5 p.m.
Society Chair Becca Stirling says the festival is the group’s most visual event of the year. “It’s basically waving a big flag in the air to let other pagans in southern Alberta know there is a growing pagan community here. We offer support, connection, friendship and learning.”
This year, plans are in the works for a great stage performance mix of local pagan musicians, as well as guest speakers.
“We’re going to have a market that has been curated for more pagan supplies and paraphernalia. We’ll be having a crafting tent, where you can paint rocks, flowerpots and make flower crowns,” adds Stirling.
One of the things the society is trying to do, Stirling says, is to educate southern Albertans about paganism through learning experiences and to teach what paganism is, rather than the stereotype society and Hollywood has portrayed. “The Wicked Witch of the West is not what we are.”
“Our main goal is to find a safe space for local pagans and the pagan-curious to connect with each other and learn,” Stirling notes.
The society organizes several other events throughout the year, including “Around the Cauldron,” which is a monthly meet and greet. “It’s a casual coffee and everyone is welcome to attend,” says Stirling.
A study group is also offered by the society called “Wisdom of the Ages.”
“People can bring their own material to study and we occasionally have guest speakers and guided topics,” says Stirling.
According to Stirling, the society puts on “Sabbats events,” and there are eight Sabbats every year. “That’s the Pagan Wheel of the Year.”
“We usually do something – either a post or a public gathering. Our next public one will be for Mabon, which is in September and it will be at the Helen Schuler Nature Centre. We recognize and observe the Wheel of the Year. The solstices and equinoxes.”
For more information about the society or Pagan Fest visit the group’s Facebook or Instagram pages.