Wayfarers’ Homecoming

Travelers always try to be home for this special day of homecoming and reunions. Those who can’t are honored for the work they do that requires such travel. Merchants, sailors, mercenaries, and people who travel for any reason make offerings to The Explorer for another year of safe journeys. These offerings are usually items of particular use when lost or traveling: a compass, a map, a pair of boots, a waterskin. Candles are a very common choice, sent out in a paper boat or floating lantern. As they are released to the winds or the waters, a ceremonial phrase is spoken in hopes that a traveler who needs it will receive it. “May ye bring someone home.”