One of the traditions of Samhain that I think can be really beautiful and help with connections is the Dumb Supper. I have a friend that is a witch and for her Samhain celebration with everyone each year she sets up the most beautiful space. This is a table that you set up for dinner. There are chairs around the table and at each place you will find a picture of the person that you wish to remember and connect with on the other side and anything else that you may wish to leave there. Think of it a bit like a mini altar for someone who has crossed over. Each chair represents a place for a different person or you may leave a chair empty if you don’t have someone for a chair. There also is a space for the people who are participating. For example you may have eight chairs around the table with four people who are taking part in the supper and four spaces reserved for the spirits of those who are on the other side. Think of it as an invitation for them to come and eat with you.
The name dumb supper comes from the practice of eating the entire meal in silence. The origination of this is debated. I’ve heard some say it’s an ancient practice and others say that it’s new. It is something that I find is a wonderful way to connect with those who have crossed. Typically you will want a darker room. I personally love candle light. As it’s Samhain it’s great if you can create a menu that reflects the spirit of the celebration, things like baked pumpkins and soul cakes are great additions. You also want to use the Samhain colors and consider a black tablecloth, plates and candles. It is most common to find the only light source to be candles.
You want to make sure that you cleanse the area before hosting the Dumb Supper and it is a good idea to also do a circle of protection around the area for everyone. Another tradition that I’ve seen with this is bringing notes of what you wish to say to the dead and burning them in a flame inside of a cauldron.
Have an amazingly magickal day!
Much Love and Many Blessings,
Jasmeine Moonsong
The Dumb Supper
