A CURIOUS HALLOWEEN

Part of The Curious Naturalist’s Autumn and Winter Workshop Series, exploring the connections between nature, science, folklore and traditional craft.

Protective Wreaths, Welsh Folklore and Samhain

Join The Curious Naturalist for a special Halloween workshop exploring the folklore of Samhain and Calan Gaeaf, the protective symbolism of seasonal plants and the changing natural world as autumn gives way to winter.

Led by Dr Amy Wyatt, this relaxed, beginner-friendly session is designed for anyone curious about Halloween traditions, Welsh folklore, paganism, witchcraft, seasonal plants and the ways people have used the natural world for symbolism, ritual and protection.

Together, we will explore how the end of autumn has been marked through seasonal traditions, storytelling and folk belief. We will look at Samhain alongside the Welsh traditions associated with Calan Gaeaf, considering how these customs have changed over time and how they relate to the Halloween celebrations we recognise today.

We will also explore the folklore attached to plants traditionally associated with protection, remembrance, resilience, cleansing and the home. You will be introduced to seasonal herbs, trees and evergreens and discover why doorways, windows and other thresholds have held such importance within protective folk traditions.

You will then create your own seasonal protective wreath using herbs, foliage and natural materials chosen for their traditional associations and the personal meanings they hold for you.

The wreath-making activity is inspired by seasonal plant folklore, protective customs and the symbolism of the threshold. It is not presented as a reconstruction of one specific historical Samhain or Calan Gaeaf practice.

This workshop offers a welcoming and down-to-earth way to celebrate Halloween through nature, creativity and folklore. Fancy dress is very welcome, but absolutely not required.

What’s included

• An introduction to Halloween, Samhain and seasonal change
• An exploration of Calan Gaeaf and Welsh autumn folklore
• A look at plants traditionally associated with protection and remembrance
• A discussion of thresholds, charms and seasonal folk practices
• Guidance on choosing plants through symbolism and personal intention
• Step-by-step guidance to create your own wreath
• All wreath bases, herbs, foliage and decorative materials
• Your own completed seasonal wreath to take home

Event details

Date: Saturday 31st October 2026
Time: 3:00pm–5:30pm
Location: Index, inside Chapter, 19 High Street, Newport, NP20 1FW
Price: £25
Experience level: Beginner friendly — no prior experience needed

Who is this workshop for?

This workshop is suitable for complete beginners. You do not need to identify as a witch or pagan or have any previous experience with folklore, wreath making or herbal practice.

It is ideal for anyone interested in:

• Halloween
• Samhain and Calan Gaeaf
• Welsh folklore
• Witchcraft and pagan traditions
• Protective plant symbolism
• Herbs and seasonal foliage
• Nature connection
• Natural crafts
• Creative, hands-on workshops

What will I make?

You will create your own seasonal protective wreath using a selection of herbs, foliage and natural materials.

You will be encouraged to choose plants based on their appearance, personal meaning and traditional associations with qualities such as protection, remembrance, resilience and grounding.

As the workshop uses natural and seasonal materials, the exact plants and decorations available may vary.

What do I need to bring?

You do not need to bring anything. All materials and equipment will be provided.

Wreath making can occasionally be a little messy, so you may prefer to wear clothing that you are comfortable crafting in. You may also wish to bring a notebook if you enjoy writing things down.

Important information

This workshop is for educational, creative and reflective purposes only. It explores folklore, symbolism and traditional customs and does not make any spiritual or protective guarantees.

The herbs, berries and other natural materials used during the workshop are decorative and are not intended for consumption. Some materials may be unsuitable for homes with young children or pets.

Please get in touch before booking if you have any allergies, sensitivities or access needs and I will do my best to support you.

Tickets are non-refundable unless the event is cancelled.

If you can no longer attend, you are welcome to transfer your ticket to another person or move your booking to another available Curious Naturalist workshop. Transfers are subject to availability, so please get in touch as soon as possible if you need to change your booking.

Location

Index, inside Chapter
19 High Street
Newport
NP20 1FW