Most Wiccan ritual is performed at night, either in a quiet, private place outdoors or in an uncluttered room at home. They are held to observe the cycles of the moon and the seasons of the year. Rites are performed within a sacred circle.

Participants take some time to get relaxed and "grounded" and to throw off any cares of the day. The area is symbolically cleansed and swept clear of any negative energies and charged with positive energy. The circle is "cast" or "drawn" with the tip of the athame, or ritual knife [this tool, like other Wiccan tools is never used for negative or harmful purposes.]

Next the Spirits of the Four Directions are called upon and their presence and protection are respectfully requested. Then the God and Goddess are invoked. They may be asked to lend their blessings, guidance or power. From there the ritual may vary, depending on its focus. Some rites can be purely celebratory: giving thanks, for example, for the harvest in the autumn, or for the lengthening of days at the Winter Solstice. Others may be for more serious work and may involve working magic. The entire process is carried out with reverence and solemnity.

Spellwork is actually a minor part of real Witchcraft, although it often is one of the most intriguing aspects of it. Spells usually involve some wording (phrases, chants, rhymes) combined with some object or objects (stones, herbs, a candle, etc.) that represent the desired goal. Spells are more than anything a psychological tool that help one focus one's thoughts to meet a specific end. The repeated wording states what one desires to occur; the objects, left upon the altar, carried in a pocket or tucked under a pillow, serve as a constant reminder of the intention.

Please keep in mind that spells are never done to control or hurt another person or do anything to anyone against their will.