The festival that commemorates the end of the winter solstice and the start of longer days in many cultures is Yule, celebrated primarily in Western pagan traditions. Yule is often associated with ancient rituals of rebirth and renewal, symbolizing the return of the sun and the gradual lengthening of days. Variations of this festival include Christmas celebrations in Christian contexts, where themes of hope and light are prominent. Many cultural practices, such as lighting candles and decorating evergreens, are derived from ancient Yule traditions.