The Wolf Moon

Amalios Full Moon

The Wolf Moon is a celebration of family, friends, and resilience. The first full moon of the calendar year, this day takes place while still in the depths of winter. It is a time to remind ourselves that even in the dark and cold, there is always light and warmth ahead. A time to reflect on the past twelve moons and to look ahead to the next eleven. The Wolf Moon serves as a resting point, allowing us to feel the cold - all the while knowing that spring is just over the horizon.

Evening gatherings between family and friends are auspicious, as are outdoor fires and utilizing fireplaces.

symbols & Decore

hair binding / veiling

  • Recommended

Jewelry / Adornments

  • Recommended

foods of significance

  • Apples & Recipes Containing Apples

  • Soups & Stews

  • Plain Sweets Such as Oatmeal or Sugar Cookies

colors of significance

  • Black

  • Burgundy

  • Grey

  • White

symbols of significance

  • Photos of Family & Friends

  • Mementos from Special Occasions

  • Fireplaces & Hearths

history vs modern day

While full moons may have been celebrated in ancient times, there is little to no record of a specific festival or observance for these lunar events (unlike Noumenia, etc.)

The traditions, alignments, and recommendations for our Full Moon Festivals come from a variety of places - not all of which are Hellenic in nature. Our Full Moon Festivals are also inspired by the local flora and fauna of South Carolina (where our Temple is located) as well as from other pagan and neo-pagan Full Moon traditions.

The Wolf Moon is named in honor of the Red Wolves of South Carolina. While only an estimated 20 wild Red Wolves remain in the Carolinas (source: The Palmetto Report), wolves in general are a vital part of the natural order and are to be revered and respected. These wonderful creatures are honored in the first month of the year, as it is the start of their mating season (source: KOA). Red Wolves are creatures of resilience and a symbol of family, as red wolves mate for life and their packs are usually made up of their offspring (source: National Wildlife Federation)

​Amalios is also the month in which we honor Lady Hestia, Goddess of Heart and Home. In this, The Wolf Moon is a time to reflect on the Oikos - the family and the home. Whether by blood or by choice, when we honor our family we honor Lady Hestia

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The Frost Moon