Founded in 1971 by Elizabeth Pepper, the long-time art director of Gourmet magazine, The Witches' Almanac is a witty, literate, and sophisticated publication that appeals to general readers as well as hard-core Wiccans and magicians. On one level, it is a pop reference that will fascinate anyone interested in folklore, mythology, and culture, but on another, it is the most sophisticated and wide-ranging annual guide available today for occultists and mysticism enthusiasts.
Modeled after the Old Farmers' Almanac, it includes information related to the annual moon calendar (weather forecasts and horoscopes), as well as legends, rituals, herbal secrets, mystic incantations, interviews, and many a curious tale of good and evil. Although it is an annual publication, only about 15 percent of the content is specific to the date range of each issue.
The theme of Issue 38 (Spring 2019 to Spring 2020) is Animals: Friends and Familiars. Also included are the following articles: "Beer and Witches," "Gargoyles," "Horseshoes," "Transgender in the Craft," and "Coefficient of Weirdness, Part 3." New authors include Sorita d'Este, Lon Milo DuQuette, David Rankine, and Mat Auryn.
