Fire Ceremonies and Folk Tales: Inside a Spring Equinox Party in the Scottish Highlands

The Gathering at Boath House

When Hugo Macdonald and James Stevens hosted a house party for Ostara at Boath House in the Scottish Highlands, it was a magical affair celebrating the Spring Equinox in style. The purpose of the 24-hour gathering was to bid farewell to winter and welcome the warmth of spring with fire, food, and festivities.

The Setting

Boath House, a Greek revival villa built in 1827, provided the perfect backdrop for the event. Surrounded by clear blue skies and the scent of burning fire and palo santo, guests were transported into a scene from a period drama as they arrived at the manor house.

The Festivities

The evening kicked off with a gathering in the living room, where guests were treated to a little history around Ostara by Hugo Macdonald and James Stevens. Scottish storyteller Eileen Budd led a bonfire ceremony, allowing guests to throw their winter woes into the flames as part of the ancient tradition.

The Feast

The Ostara feast, prepared by chefs Philip Mcenaney and Katie Austin, featured dishes made from ingredients grown in Boath’s historic walled garden. From savory egg custards to roast chicken served family-style, the meal was a celebration of local flavors and traditions.

The Morning Rituals

The following morning, guests embarked on early activities such as wild swimming in Moray Firth and wood-fired sauna sessions. The sense of camaraderie and connection was palpable as everyone came together to embrace the rituals of the new season.

The Highland House Party Tradition

The event captured the essence of a Highland house party, a Scottish tradition that the Bard founders aim to resurrect. The opportunity to spend 24 hours together in various settings allowed for meaningful connections and conversations to blossom among the guests.

The Farewell

As guests packed up to head home, there was a sense of upliftment and rejuvenation in the air. Whether it was the cold water swim, the bonfire ceremony, or the company of new friends, the experience at Boath House left a lasting impression on all who attended.

As the villa disappeared in the rearview mirror, the memories of the Spring Equinox party at Boath House remained as a testament to the magic of nature, folklore, and human connection.

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