BuildFire
Join us for our Mōdraniht Open House, a day-long celebration honoring our female ancestors during one of the most sacred nights of the Yuletide season. In Celtic, Norse, and Germanic traditions, Mōdraniht (Mothers Night) marks the beginning of the Yuletide season, celebrating the wisdom and power of our feminine ancestors and the Dísir (female deities, spirits, guardians, and warriors).
In our modern context, Mothers Night offers an opportunity to honor the legacy of the women who shaped us - both our blood ancestors and those who have mothered us in other ways. It's a time to acknowledge the wisdom passed down through generations and strengthen our connections to those who came before us. Whether you're deeply connected to your maternal lineage or seeking to build those bridges, this celebration offers space for meaningful connection and remembrance.
Hosted By: Rivtak & Magick Makers as part of their Winter Pop-Up Shop at Observable Universe
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
ALL DAY (2:00 PM - 8:00 PM)
🕯️ Visit our Community Altar to honor your female ancestors
🕯️ Share stories and fellowship in our cozy lounge area
🕯️ Create a collage to commemorate the season
🕯️ Enjoy light seasonal refreshments
🕯️ Browse our curated selection of Yuletide gifts
🕯️ Write messages of gratitude to the maternal figures in your life
FIRE RITUAL (Sunset - 8:00 PM)
As darkness falls, join us in our outdoor space for our fire ritual. Offer herbs, written intentions, or gratitudes to your ancestors in our ritual fire. This is a beautiful way to connect with the ancient tradition of keeping vigil on the longest night.
SUGGESTED OFFERINGS FOR YOUR ANCESTORS:
🕯️ Traditional offerings: honey, milk, bread, or booze (traditionally mead or your ancestors’ favorite)
🕯️ Herbs associated with ancestry work: mugwort, rosemary, sage
🕯️ Personal items: copies of family photos, written prayers or poetry
🕯️ Flowers or seasonal greenery
🕯️ Items that remind you of specific ancestors
🕯️ Written intentions or gratitudes
🕯️ Family recipes or traditional foods
🕯️ Small tokens that represent your ancestors' passions or work
SPECIAL EVENT: TRADITIONAL BLÓT CEREMONY
We will be holding an intimate traditional offering ceremony (blót) during the evening. This ceremony has limited space and requires RSVP. Please contact hello@themagickmakers.com for details and to reserve your spot. All guests are welcome to observe the ritual.
ABOUT THE WINTER POP-UP SHOP
This collaboration between Rivtak and Magick Makers provides a thoughtful collection of artisan goods, ritual supplies, art, and curiosities that encourage rejuvenation and expansion. More than shop, this is a space for creation, inspiration, and community gathering. The shop and special programming will continue through the end of February.
Find us in Observable Universe—part of the Ample Arts District.
During the open house, we invite you to explore our full selection of:
🎁 Handcrafted items from local artisans
🎁 Ritual tools and supplies
🎁 Curated selection of new & used books
🎁 Creative goods for hearth & home
🎁 Divination tools
This is an excellent opportunity to complete your Yuletide shopping while participating in meaningful community ritual. Erin (Magick Makers) & River (Rivtak) will be available to help you find the perfect gifts for your loved ones.
ALL THE IMPORTANT DEETS
✨ Free admission
✨ Light refreshments provided
✨ Outdoor fire ritual will take place weather permitting
✨ Blót ceremony requires advance RSVP
✨ The shop will be open for regular retail sales throughout the event
✨ At Observable Universe 2200-F Dominion St, Durham, NC 27704
Join us in honoring our ancestors while preparing for the sacred season of Yule. Whether you stay for a few minutes or a few hours, all are welcome to participate in this community celebration.