Litha, also known as the Summer Solstice or Midsummer, is a pagan festival marking the start of summer and is the longest day and shortest night of the year. This is usually around 20 – 22 June (in the Northern hemisphere).
The roots of Litha lie in ancient agricultural societies that relied on the sun for their livelihoods. A time to honour and celebrate the light, heat and power of the sun, bonfires were traditionally lit to ensure abundant harvests. Midsummer activities are observed in many cultures across the world, including in Scandinavia where it is a prominent part of their cultural heritage.
Litha gained popularity in more recent times with modern Wiccan and pagan communities who sought to reclaim the festival and so it is one of the eight sabbats of the Wheel of the Year. Many gather at ancient sites like Stonehenge to witness the solstice sunrise and it is a particularly magickal time for handfasting ceremonies.
Overall, the meaning of Litha is one of joy, abundance, and connection to the natural world. It is a time to celebrate the light and warmth of the sun, and to embrace the energy of growth and transformation that comes with the summer season.
Gathering herbs to be used for health and protection potions/rituals at this time is common as they are believed to be more potent. Herbs related to Litha include St Johns Wort, Lavender, Mugwort, Chamomile, Rose, Lemon Balm, Mint, Sage, Yarrow and Calendula.
Flowers are of course a large part of this festival, particularly those with sun-like colours. Making a flower crown can be a lovely thing to do and wear, or gather fresh flowers for your altar. You may want to include sunflowers, roses, marigolds, daisies.
If crystals are your thing, citrine, Tiger’s Eye, amber and sunstone are linked to this solstice.
You may want to place particular tarot cards on your altar which you feel resonate with Litha. Perhaps The Sun for it’s direct association, or The Emperor and The Empress, or maybe the Ace of Wands (wands connecting to fire and energy) and the Ace of new beginnings.
Adorn your altar (and yourself!) in the colours associated with Litha – yellows, greens, oranges and arrange some gold or yellow candles in the shape of the sun for extra symbolism.
The summer solstice is a moment of perfect balance representing the climax of light and the very beginning of the darker, quieter phase of the year. Basking in the suns full glow, whilst acknowledging the natural progression of the seasons and the turning of the wheel.
Light a bonfire, be with loved ones, feast, dance, hug and watch the sunrise.
