Summer Solstice


Midsummer: Summer Solstice, Alban Hefin (Caledonii), Litha.

June 20 - 23 Northern Hemisphere / December 20 - 23 Southern Hemisphere.

The Summer Solstice, the longest day, is a time of triumph for the light. This holiday represents the Sun King in all his glory.

In many Wiccan celebrations, this is when the Oak King, who represents the waxing year, is triumphed over by the Holly King, who represents the waning year. The two are one: the Oak King is the growing youth while the Holly King is the mature man. On Midsummer night, elves and fairies abound in great numbers.

Symbols to represent the Litha Sabbat are such things as Fire, the Sun, blades, mistletoe, oak trees, balefire, Sun wheels and faeries.Nurturing and love are key actions related to Midsummer.

Ritual actions for Litha may include placing a flower-ringed cauldron upon your altar, plunging of the sword (or athame) into the Cauldron, bonfire leaping (outdoors) and the gathering and drying of herbs. Herbs can be dried over the ritual fire if you're celebrating outdoors. Leap the bonfire for purification and renewed energy. Ritually, use mirrors to capture the light of the Sun or the flames of the fire.

Some things that are considered taboo on this Holiday are giving away Fire, sleeping away from home and neglecting animals.

Altar decorations might include Summertime flowers, love amulets, seashells, aromatic potpourri and Summer fruits. Healings and love magick are especially suitable at this time. Midsummer Night's Eve is supposed to be a good time to commune with field and forest sprites and faeries.