Litha, (pronounced "LEE-thuh) also known as Midsummer or the Summer Solstice, is one of the eight Sabbats celebrated by Wiccans and other Neopagans. It marks the longest day and shortest night of the year and is celebrated around June 21st in the Northern Hemisphere and around December 21st in the Southern Hemisphere. Litha is a time of abundance, light, and growth, as the Earth reaches the height of its power and vitality.
The name "Litha" comes from the Anglo-Saxon word "litha," which means "gentle" or "calm." It is a time of balance and harmony, as the sun reaches its peak and begins its descent into darkness.
Here are some ideas for celebrating Litha:
Create An Altar
Set up a special altar to honour the changing of the seasons. Use summer colours like yellow, orange, and red, and incorporate symbols of abundance and growth like flowers, fruits, and herbs.
Connect with Nature
Litha is a time of abundance and vitality, so it's a great time to spend time in nature and connect with the energy of the sun. Take a hike, have a picnic, or simply sit outside and soak up the sun's rays.
Make a Bonfire
Bonfires are a traditional part of Litha celebrations and are used to symbolize the power of the sun. You can make a small fire in your backyard or go to a larger community event. If you are unable to participate in a bonfire, you can also use candles to represent the element of fire.
Harvest Herbs
Litha is a time of growth and abundance, so it's a traditional time to harvest herbs for cooking or for use in spells and rituals. Herbs like lavender, rosemary, and chamomile are especially potent at this time of year.
Spells and Rituals
Litha is a powerful time for magic and manifestation. You can perform a ritual to set intentions for the coming months, or to honour the sun and its energy.
Since Litha is a time of abundance, light, and growth, it is an opportune time to connect with the Earth and the changing of the seasons, honouring the cycles of life and death. Whether celebrated alone or with others, Litha can be a powerful time for magick in the natural world.
Blessed Be ☾ Moon Mysticraft
