Historically there was only one time every year when Vesta’s temple was open to the public: during the festival of Vestalia, held from June 7–15. Even then, only females were permitted to enter, and they had to petition for blessings on behalf of the rest of their family and household. Thankfully, these days most of the progressive pagan community has moved beyond such gender segregation, so let’s all take the opportunity today to honor this goddess of hearth and home.

For many of us, our home is our temple. Today, make an offering to Vesta of some home-cooked food from your kitchen hearth. It doesn’t matter if it’s elaborate or simple— perhaps a lovely bit of homemade bread or even a cup of tea made yourself. Place it on your altar and safely light a candle to Vesta. Ask for a blessing upon your hearth, home, and family. Be sure to extinguish the candle. Blessed be!