The Summer Solstice, also known as Litha, occurs on Tuesday, 21st of June, marking the astronomical first day of summer in the Northern Hemisphere.
The sun is at the height of its power – the longest day!
This is a dual celebration. On one hand, it’s a celebration of the outward cycle of the sun and all that has manifested and on the other, it is a celebration of the return of the dark as from now on the days will shorten. Take time to honour something in your life that has ended and something new that is beginning.
This is a time of rampant growth. The trees are in full leaf and blossom, plants are flowering, and an abundance of fruit and vegetables are ripening.
It’s a time to celebrate what you have achieved and manifested. It is a time to enjoy what you have and who you are.
There are many ways to celebrate Litha and the Summer Solstice. You can spend time with loved ones, sing, dance, laugh, and watch the sunrise. Spend some time outside in nature. If you can, and it’s safe to do so, light a fire or a fire pit.
Create a circle or wheel out of stones or sticks. Start with a centre stone. Then mark the changing seasons North and South (Winter and Summer Solstice) and East and West (Spring and Autumn Equinoxes). Then mark the cross points in between (NE, SE, SW, and NW) to represent other key times throughout the year – Imbolc (February), Beltain (May), Lammas (August) and Samhain (Halloween). Ponder on what each direction means to you.
Whatever you do, make sure to enjoy the quiet moments and take in all that nature has to offer, and enjoy the sun while it’s still warm!
