A witchcraft fair celebrating Lupercalia will arrive in London on February 22.
Anita May, founder of The Witches of London group and co owner of The Witches Lair, said “We normally get people who are curious about witchcraft, whom we call new brooms. New witches who come to the event have lots of questions for us; they’re looking for mentors.”
Three years ago, May and her partner, Kate Sawyers started with only 11 members, but the community has since grown to over 750 members.
The market celebrates Lupercalia, an ancient Roman festival celebrating fertility, purification, and the coming of spring. Lupercalia has long inspired pagans and witches alike to honour growth, love, and light as winter begins to wane. It is a time to shed the old, embrace the new, and find magic in all that surrounds us.
Past Witchcraft market vendor (photo supplied by Anita May)
The event will be held at 311 Oakland Avenue and will feature over 30 witchcraft and occult vendors. “We have readers and mediums, and of course, I will be there selling smudging kits, tarot holders, and altar items – everything that can enhance your magical practice.”
The market provides a safe space for those curious about the craft to come and learn. “I just want to be able to create awareness and knowledge, and all of our vendors are very much the same,” said May.
Vendors at past witchcraft market
May added “The market is just that next step in creating a safe place for witches to shop, to talk to local witches, and be able to ask questions in an environment where they won’t be poked fun at.”
Attendees are encouraged to dress in their best witchy attire and come support the small businesses while enjoying the festivities.
