How to Start Your Own Local Pagan Group

For many of us, walking the Pagan path can feel a little lonely. Maybe you’re the only witch in your family, or maybe you don’t know anyone else in your town who celebrates the Sabbats or reads Tarot. The truth is, there are likely more Pagans around you than you realize — they’re just waiting for someone to put out the call. That someone could be you.
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Starting your own local Pagan group doesn’t have to be complicated. You don’t need a temple, a huge budget, or even a large following. You just need the willingness to gather people together.

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Here’s how to get started:
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1. Know Your “Why”
Ask yourself: Why do I want to start this group?

• Is it for ritual and celebration?
• ​For study and learning together?
• For friendship, community, and social support?

Your “why” will shape everything else — from what kind of gatherings you host to how you invite people in.

2. Start Small
Your first meeting doesn’t need to be a festival. Think simple: coffee at a café, a potluck in a park, or a casual Tarot night. Even two or three people sitting together can be the beginning of a beautiful community.

3. Put Out the Call
Let people know you’re starting something. You can:

• Post in local Pagan or witchy Facebook groups.
• ​Put up a flyer at a metaphysical shop, library, or coffeehouse.
• Ask if a community center has a bulletin board or room you can use.
• ​Try Meetup.com or Eventbrite to reach seekers nearby.

Keep your invitation clear and welcoming:
“Are you Pagan, witchy, or curious about earth-based spirituality? Join us for a casual gathering on [date] at [location]. All paths and experience levels welcome!”

4. Be Consistent
The secret to building a group is consistency. Even if only a couple of people show up at first, keep hosting. Word will spread. People will start to trust that your group is real and reliable.

5. Set the Tone
From the beginning, decide what kind of atmosphere you want. Is your group cozy and social? Ritual-focused? Family-friendly? Inclusive of all paths?

Write down a few values you want to guide your group, like:

• Respect for all traditions
• Welcoming newcomers
• No gatekeeping
• ​Confidentiality and safety

This helps new members feel at ease right away.

6. Grow Organically
Don’t worry about rushing. Let your group grow at its own pace. Focus on connection, friendship, and shared experiences. Over time, you may find yourself celebrating Sabbats together, hosting workshops, or even creating community traditions.

A Real-Life Example
When I (Lady Shay Bygul) first started my local Pagan group in 2020, I had no idea how it would turn out. At the time, I just wanted a few people to gather with so we could share magick, celebrate, and support one another. Over the years, that little seed has blossomed into a thriving community with more than 250 members. We’ve hosted game nights, workshops, potlucks, rituals, and so much more. It all began with one simple invitation — and the willingness to take that first step.

Remember
You don’t need to be an expert or a high priest/ess to start a local Pagan group. You just need the courage to begin. The people you’re looking for are also looking for you.
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So brew some coffee, light a candle, and put out the invitation. You might be surprised at how quickly your circle begins to grow.

✨ Want to share your story? Have you started a Pagan group in your town? Tell us about it in the comments! Your journey could inspire someone else to take that first step.

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