Yule, a celebration of the winter solstice, has been observed in several ways dating as far back as the 4th century. In ancient Pagan traditions, Pagans used this holiday to feast and wish for good fertility in the coming year. In England, the winter solstice was used to inspire hope that the sun would warm the Earth after such harsh cold weather. Both of these celebrations lasted several days and included specific good luck practices. Today, some of these traditions have held up in modern Paganism, while some are reflected in Christian Christmas traditions. (Below is the Pagan's personification of Winter, the Holly King).