June 20th-23rd is the celebration of Summer Solstice, also known as Litha. The Summer Solstice marks the longest day and shortest night of the year. The night of Summer Solstice has long been revered as a time of magic and manifestation, when the sun is at the height of its power in the shadow of the waxing Moon.
In old Celtic traditions, the Summer Solstice festival usually spanned several days and focused on outdoor events under the open sun by day, and ’round a large bonfire by night. Solstice marked the official start of Summer when crops were ripening, and trees and bushes were starting to produce fruit. It was a time of giving thanks to the Gods & Goddesses of the Sun, Fire, Fertility, & Abundance.
Whether you are flying solo this Solstice or celebrating with a group, take some time to connect with the energy of the Sun, and the Spirit of the new season. The exact days and rituals of Summer Solstice vary from culture to culture and country to country, so be creative. Put together your own Mid-Summer altar or festival. Keep in mind this is a celebration of the Sun and the abundance of Summer. Stop into Earth lore-Plymouth or Livonia and stock up on Sun & Fire candles, & Patchouli, Cinnamon, & Amber incense. Make a Summer Talisman with Citrine, Sunstone, Gold Tiger Eye, Calendula herb & Orange slices.
Above all, this is a time to celebrate life, and the fruits of our labor. It is a time to give thanks for our spiritual gifts and to pass our blessings on to others.
To all of our readers & patrons,
Happy Summer Solstice from all of us at Earth lore.
6 thoughts on “A Mid-Summer Night’s Rite”
Although I nam new to the craft, I enjoy reading this News Letter.
Thanks you for posting this, the Summer Solstice is my favorite time of year next to Samhain and the Vernal Equinox. I hope everyone enjoys and finds peace of mind during this wonderful celebration.
Hail, fellow meta-minded! This article, and newsletter in general, brings smiles upon smiles. Thank you to all involved. My inquiry, is in regards to gathering; where might a tru mage hope to meet tru folk? In Plymouth particularly, I am hoping to celebrate present and future crafty-ness. Any thoughts, ideas, and/or what-have-you’s? With a hopeful spirit, I bid farhail…
MY husband & I are looking for others of like mind to start celebrating with, and get to know. We are from the Plymouth area.
Thank you all for your comments and kind words. For those looking for like-minded folks, here are a couple of networking tools/groups you may find useful. Blessed be.
http://www.witchvox.com – This is one of the BEST networking sites for folks in the craft!
http://www.focusmi.org – The Federation of Circles & Solitaries based here in MI.
sites.google.com/site/mrlccog/ – Miidwest Regional Council of the Covenant of the Goddess
May the moon light meet you at your feet and carry you across green ackears
and the gods and goddes bless you on your way to peace and long life .
The Summer Solstice is a favorite time fully celebration of this time.
Be Blessed and go on your folk sprite ride to a know life ahead
gods speed. B~~