The magical time of the Rauhnächte

The Rauhnächte are one of the most powerful and mystical times of the year. From December 21st to January 1st, a spiritual portal opens between worlds, where ancient wisdom comes alive and the future casts its shadow ahead.

What are the Rauhnächte?

The Rauhnächte (also called Rauchnächte) are the 12 holy nights between the winter solstice and New Year's. During this time, the world stands still, the veil between worlds is thin, and the spiritual energy reaches its peak.

Different traditions - different time periods

Depending on the region and tradition, there are different calculations of the Rauhnächte:

Spiritual Rauhnächte (12/21 - 1/1)

This variant begins with the winter solstice on December 21 and ends on New Year's Day. It follows the natural annual cycle and the return of the light. This is the version we use in our detailed articles.

• 1st Rauhnacht (12/21) = January
• 2nd Rauhnacht (12/22) = February
• 3rd Rauhnacht (12/23) = March
• 4th Rauhnacht (12/24) = April
• 5th Rauhnacht (12/25) = May
• 6th Rauhnacht (12/26) = June
• 7th Rauhnacht (12/27) = July
• 8th Rauhnacht (12/28) = August
• 9th Rauhnacht (12/29) = September
• 10th Rauhnacht (12/30) = October
• 11th Rauhnacht (12/31) = November
• 12th Rauhnacht (1/1) = December

Christian Rauhnächte (12/25 - 1/6)

The Christian-influenced tradition counts the Rauhnächte from the first Christmas day (December 25) to Epiphany (January 6). These 12 nights correspond to the "Twelve Holy Nights" between the birth of Christ and the appearance of the Three Wise Men.

Folk Rauhnächte (12/24 - 1/6)

Another common way of counting starts on Christmas Eve (December 24) and also ends on January 6. This variant connects the winter solstice with the Christian liturgical calendar.

Which tradition is the right one?

All traditions have their validity and their own power. It is important that you choose one way of counting and remain faithful to it throughout the entire time. The spiritual energy and rituals work regardless of the chosen calendar - what matters is your intention and devotion.

The assignment to the months

Each of the 12 Rauhnächte symbolically represents a month of the coming year. What you dream, experience, or feel on the respective night gives clues about the corresponding month.

The history of the Rauhnächte

Germanic roots

The tradition of the Rauhnächte dates back to the pre-Christian, Germanic era. Our ancestors believed that during these nights the Wild Hunt roamed the skies - a procession of spirits, ancestors, and mythical beings, led by Wotan (Odin).

People stayed in their homes during this time, burned sacred herbs, and protected themselves from wandering spirits. At the same time, it was a time to honor ancestors and connect with the spiritual world.

The name "Rauhnächte"

The name has several possible origins:

• "Rauch": From the incense burnings carried out during this time
• "Rauh": From the rough, wild nature of these nights
• "Rûch": Old High German for "hairy" or "furry" - referring to the demonic figures

Christian overlay

With Christianization, the Rauhnächte were integrated into the Christian calendar. The time between Christmas (birth of Christ) and Epiphany (January 6th) became the holy time. Many old customs, however, were preserved and merged with Christian traditions.

Spiritual significance of the Rauhnächte

Time between times

The Rauhnächte are a "time outside of time". The old annual cycle is complete, the new one has not yet begun. In this in-between space, different laws apply:

• The boundaries between worlds blur
• Dreams are especially meaningful and prophetic
• Oracles and divination are especially powerful
• Rituals have enhanced effects
• The connection to ancestors and spirits is intense

The winter solstice as a beginning

The spiritual Rauhnächte begin with the winter solstice on December 21 - the longest night of the year. From this moment, the days grow longer again, the light returns. It is the rebirth of the sun and symbolizes hope, new beginnings, and the eternal cycle of coming and going.

Traditional customs and rituals

Fumigation

The fumigation is the most important custom of the Rauhnächte. Traditionally done with:

• Frankincense: Cleansing and protection
• Sage: Energetic clarification
• Mugwort: Protection from negative energies
• Juniper: Defense against evil spirits
• Spruce: Cleansing of the rooms

All rooms of the house are fumigated, especially the corners, to drive away negative energies and create protection.

Oracles and dream interpretation

The dreams of the Rauhnächte are considered prophetic. Each night gives clues about the corresponding month of the coming year. Many people keep a dream journal and interpret their nightly visions.

Also Tarot, runes, pendulums, and other oracles are particularly meaningful during this time.

Lead pouring and lot oracles

Especially on New Year's Eve, the future is traditionally consulted - through lead pouring, wax pouring, or drawing lots.

Do not wash laundry

An old superstition says that you should not wash laundry during the Rauhnächte, as otherwise the Wild Hunt could get caught in the linens and bring bad luck.

Modern spiritual practice

Today, the Rauhnächte are experiencing a renaissance. Many people use this time for:

• Year in Review: Reflection on the past year
• Letting Go: Saying goodbye to old patterns and blockages
• Goal Setting: Setting intentions for the new year
• Meditation and Introspection: Connection with the higher self
• Ritual Work: Manifestation and transformation
• Crystal Work: Energetic support through gemstones

Your Rauhnächte Journey

The Rauhnächte are an invitation to pause, look inward, and connect with the deeper rhythms of life. Each of the 12 nights offers a unique energy and opportunity for growth.

In our shop, you will find everything you need for your Rauhnächte rituals:

• Incense and Charcoal
• Crystals for Each Rauhnacht
• Essential Oils
• Candles and Ritual Supplies
• Oracle Cards and Tarot

May the Rauhnächte bring you clarity, protection, and inspiration for the coming year!

Further Articles

Discover our detailed guides for each individual Rauhnacht (12/21 - 1/1) with specific rituals, crystal recommendations, and affirmations.