“Sara Hannant’s photographs of English folk customs capture the eternity of tradition and the spectacular force of movement contained in group celebrations. From Ottery St Mary’s blazing tar barrels to the colourful greenery of Deptford’s Green Man, Hannant shows with dramatic vividness how the Wheel of the Year keeps spinning even when so many of us have forgotten its pagan ancestry.” Abraxas: International Journal of Esoteric Studies
"England’s strange and ancient winter rituals" Linda Serk BBC
Lighting up the darkness to guide or to repel spirits underpins many of the British folk customs occurring during what ancient Britons called the Dark Season. Contemporary folk rites to brighten the dark season include costumed processions, symbolic and sacred drama, traditional dance, street music and fire ceremonies. Observations often enact cycles of nature, employ ancient imagery or incorporate aspects of local history.