Eldritch Rites, Observances, and Holidays

I feel like we have enough details about some of these that they're going to need their breakout page.

End of Year Celebrations

The Solstice Vigil

Shortest day of the year, also known as "Longest Night". A carryover from landing, the darkest night of the year proved to be the most dangerous, as they were frequently hunted by the predators of the planet. Men would stay outside to guard the homes (male guards and servants as well, for larger homes). Over time, as the creatures were hunted and buildings became more secure, the Solstice Vigil became more symbolic of protection and sacrifice.

Current tradition includes men gathering in the local chapels to keep the Vigil together until midnight, mulling "gentleman's punch", a strong drink typically not consumed by women. The men then return to their houses to wait for the dawn with their families and partake of food and warm beverages.

Women remain in the houses, in the past they would wait in the houses with candles, and often sing if there were several women waiting together. Several traditional songs exist, but usually need at least ten participants to sound right. Currently, women pass the time playing board games and consume mulled cider and pastries.

Once the men return home, gifts are exchanged among the family. There is also the tradition of The Stranger - if someone unexpected arrives, they are welcomed into the home and offered the first of the food and drink (but usually do not receive gifts, as they were unexpected).