Ostara: Welcoming Spring and Renewal
Ostara, or the Spring Equinox, falls between March 20th–22nd and marks a day of balance between light and dark. It is a season of renewal, growth, and the first signs of life returning after winter. Across history and cultures, people have celebrated this time as one of fertility, joy, and the awakening of the earth.
Even when spring teases us with snowstorms or chilly winds, the energy of Ostara encourages us to notice what is stirring beneath the surface — in the garden, in nature, and in our own lives. It’s a time to honor balance, nurture beginnings, and set intentions for growth and creativity.
Brief History
Throughout the world, spring equinox celebrations have been observed in many ways. The ancient Persians marked the day as Nowruz, the New Year, celebrating renewal. The Mayans honored the sun serpent deity, while Romans celebrated the resurrection of Attis alongside the goddess Cybele. In northern Europe, the Saxons worshipped Eostre, also known as Ostara, goddess of the dawn and fertility.
The goddess Ostara (or Eostre) was said to bring joy and blessings, often celebrated with bonfires, dances, and seasonal games. Eggs, symbols of fertility and new life, became central to the festival, long before the modern traditions of Easter. Across cultures, people decorated eggs, often placing them on altars or tables as symbols of rebirth and the sun’s return. Even the Easter Bunny finds its roots in folklore connected to this season — a reminder that the cycles of life, nature, and myth intertwine.
Correspondences
Colors: light blue, green, pink, yellow
Stones: aquamarine, moonstone, rose quartz
Plants: birch, daffodil, honeysuckle, lily, maple, rose, violet
Goddesses: Ostara, Aphrodite, Athena, Cybele, Demeter, Diana, Gaia, Hera, Isis, Juno, Persephone, Venus
Gods: Adonis, Cernunnos, The Green Man, Odin, Pan
Animals: hare, rabbit, sheep, snake, hawk, sparrow, swallow
Intentions / Focus: balance, beauty, fertility, growth, love, rebirth, renewal
In the Home / Crafts
Ostara invites us to bring the themes of growth and balance indoors, even if the garden is still waking from winter. Creative rituals can help reinforce the energy of renewal:
Craft a spring wreath with greenery, ribbons, and eggs (real, blown-out, or faux).
Dye or decorate eggs using natural colors.
Plant seeds in egg cartons as a simple way to nurture new life.
Make bird feeders or an Ostara tree with hollow eggs or seasonal ornaments.
Take a spring walk, observing early buds, shoots, and signs of wildlife.
Clear and refresh your physical and spiritual spaces to invite new energy.
Take a cleansing bath with Epsom salt and spring herbs.
Hang a wind sock or other symbols of movement and growth.
In the Kitchen
Spring is the season to lighten up the menu, reflecting the freshness and growth around us:
Deviled eggs and other egg dishes
Spring sprouts salad with a light vinaigrette
Hot cross buns
Lemon poppyseed bread or muffins
Lavender-lemon shortbread (family favorite!)
Creme brûlée or other seasonal desserts
Cooking and sharing these foods can become a ritual of abundance, welcoming the sun and celebrating the first flavors of spring.
Family (Optional )
Even if the weather still leans winter, families can enjoy small seasonal activities:
Create a family Ostara tree or egg decorations together.
Make a Brigid-style altar or seasonal table centerpiece.
Read Eostra and the Hare from dreamland magic.
Set a family intention or goal for growth and renewal.
These shared moments nurture connection and curiosity while honoring the season.
Journal / Divination Prompts
What areas of your life need balance right now?
Where is growth quietly happening in your world?
What intentions do you want to set for the coming months?
How can you invite joy and fertility into your home, heart, or garden?
Final Thoughts
Ostara reminds us that light and life always return, even when the winter seems long. By observing nature, crafting meaningful rituals, and embracing small acts of renewal, we align ourselves with the seasonal rhythms and set the tone for growth and joy in the months ahead.
"I welcome the return of light and life. I nurture growth, balance, and joy within myself and my home."
