Enchanting Fairy Jars: Unveiling the History and Magic of Fairies
Join us as we delve into the origins of fairy folklore and explore ancient myths about these magical creatures who dance in fairy during the summer solstice and make our own fairy jar!
Enigmatic Origins
Fairy legends have enchanted people’s imaginations for centuries, but their origins remain shrouded in mystery. These enchanting creatures can be found in folklore and myths from various cultures around the world. Ancient civilizations, such as Mesopotamia, Egypt, and the Celts, all had beliefs in beings akin to fairies, although their forms and names differed.
For example in ancient Mesopotamian mythology, there are references to beings known as “apkallu” or “Seven Sages.” These semi-divine figures were associated with wisdom, magic, and the protection of humans. They bear resemblances to later fairy-like beings.
The ancient Egyptians believed in beings called “khnumu” or “knemides,” who were associated with the natural world and considered guardians or protectors. These beings, although not identical to fairies, share some similarities.
Celtic mythology and folklore, particularly in Ireland and Scotland, contain rich traditions of fairies. The Sidhe, Aos Sí, or Tuatha Dé Danann are often depicted as fairy-like beings with magical powers and connections to the natural world. These legends date back to ancient Celtic times and have continued to evolve through the centuries.,
Norse mythology includes entities such as the “álfar” or “elves,” who were supernatural beings associated with nature, beauty, and magic. These beings have resemblances to fairies in other traditions and have their roots in ancient Norse beliefs.
Finally, Persian mythology features a variety of supernatural beings, including the “peris” or “paris,” who are considered fairy-like spirits associated with beauty, grace, and enchantment. These legends have ancient origins and are mentioned in Persian literature.
The Summer Solstice & Fairies
Many European cultures believed midsummer was a time when the boundaries between the human world and the realm of the supernatural, including elves and fairies, became thin. On this enchanted night, magical creatures emerge from their hidden dwellings and engage in various activities in the natural world. If you visit an ancient burial mound or fairy ring, on Midsummer’s Eve, you may catch a glimpse of the fairies as they dance and celebrate. They are believed to be particularly active during this time, reveling in the energy and magic of the year’s longest day.
Catching Fairies
The idea of catching fairies did not become popular until the Victorian period (1800s). In ancient folklore, there are no specific legends about capturing fairies.
But, there are ancient legends and beliefs that involve fairies. In Celtic folklore, fairies had a penchant for kidnapping humans and replacing them with changelings—fairy children who resembled the stolen human child. There are also stories where people encounter fairies and strike bargains with them, such as exchanging gifts or receiving favors.
Ancient beliefs and stories regarding fairies were superstitious, cautionary tales, and involved respecting the magical realm.
Much as leprechauns are attracted to gold, fairies love shiny objects so, if you plan to catch a fairy in a jar make sure you set a good trap with some glitter or shiny coins!
Now let’s make a fairy jar!
Supplies:
- An old, but clean jar with a lid to make sure your fairy doesn’t escape! (You can use a mason jar, an old spaghetti jar, or any kind of glass bottle)
- Fairy lights (sometimes you can find them at the Dollar Store or you can pick up a pack of 6 for less than $10 on Amazon)
- Mod Podge
- Glitter (your choice of color)
- One of our fairy templates (Fairy 1, Fairy 2, Dancing Fairy)
- Scissors
- Paint Brush
Directions:
- Print one the fairy templates
- Cut it out
- Paint Mod Podge on the outside of your jar
- Apply the fairy cut out
- Sprinkle or roll your jar in glitter
- Paint a second layer of Mod Podge
- Wait for your jar to dry
- Place your fairy lights inside the jar and turn them on!
