About this episode

CJ Steedman explores the history and significance of Yule, offering practical ideas for celebrating the winter solstice on a homestead.

Winter has settled in. The garden has slowed down, the chickens are taking their annual leave, and the shortest day of the year is almost here. But what if this wasn't something to endure? What if it was something to celebrate? In this episode of Ditch the Store, CJ explores the history of Yule, the ancient midwinter festival that celebrated the longest night of the year and the return of the light. We look at how many familiar Christmas traditions have roots in older seasonal celebrations and why Yule still makes perfect sense for modern homesteaders. Whether you're interested in history, seasonal living, family traditions, or simply finding a meaningful way to mark the winter solstice, this episode is packed with practical ideas you can use on your own homestead. ❄️ What Yule is and why it was celebrated 🔥 The connection between Yule, winter solstice, and Christmas traditions 🌲 The history behind Yule logs, evergreen decorations, candles, and midwinter feasts 🐔 Why seasonal living still matters for modern homesteaders 📝 Questions to reflect on as you review your homestead year 🍲 Simple and affordable Yule traditions you can start with your family 🌱 How winter planning can…

People in this episode

Host: CJ Steedman

Topics covered

• Yule celebration
• winter solstice
• homesteading traditions
• seasonal living
• family traditions
• midwinter feasts

Keywords

• Yule
• winter solstice
• homesteading
• seasonal traditions
• Christmas roots
• midwinter celebration
• family activities
• Yule logs
• evergreen decorations

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: Christmas

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• Episode 167: Why Your Chickens Have Gone on Strike (and What You Can Do About It) · June 17, 2026 · 43 min

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