A small community gathered around a campfire in a field

Community

What Is a Pagan Moot?

Usually a pub, a circle of chairs, and variable conversation.

A moot is an informal Pagan meeting, often held in a pub, café or community hall. Formats differ, but most are places to talk without joining a formal organisation.

What usually happens

Someone has booked a table or a room. People arrive in ones and twos. Conversation ranges from the weather to ritual technique to the price of incense. There may be a short notice period for events. There may be nothing more structured than “same time next month”.

Some moots are excellent. Some are cliques. Some are mostly one person talking. You find out by going.

First visit advice

Wear whatever you normally wear. Ask questions if you have them. An hour is enough for a first visit, and there is no obligation to return.

If you are hoping to meet a partner, treat it as a place to meet people rather than a dating event. The distinction matters for everyone else’s comfort.

Finding one

Start with local Facebook groups, festival listings, national Pagan organisations and word of mouth. Information is patchy, so check that a listing is current before travelling.

About the writer

Clare Stowe writes about Pagan life and relationships for Pagan Dating.