Exploring Litha & the Summer Solstice
Legend of Litha
Litha was seen as a battle between the Oak King and the Holly King for control. The Oak King was representative of daylight. It was believed that he ruled from yule until Litha. This is the period of the year where the masses recognized that daylight grew longer. The Holly King was representative of night. Legend has it that the Holly King would win each battle of Litha. Thus causing a steady dwindling daylight until the holiday Yule.
If you are interested or well versed in history, you might know about pagan holidays or at least their traditions. Many of the traditions that people recognize in christian celebrations actually stem from pagan holidays. Traditions such as christmas trees, yule logs, and the celebration of midsummer in Europe. If you know or are a practicing wiccan, you might have heard of Litha. Litha is one of the 8 sabbats, a pagan holiday that celebrates summer. How did these pagans know when to celebrate this holiday?
Summer Solstice ~ the longest day of the year ~
Were you aware that there is a longest day of the year? Every summer between June 20th - June 22nd, one day has the longest exposure to the sun. This year, June 21st 2022, is the day of the summer solstice for the northern hemisphere. This is the astronomical first day of summer for this region as the sun travels along the northernmost path in the sky, exposing this region to its light for the longest period in the year. Conversely, in the southern hemisphere they experience the winter solstice, as they are receiving the least amount of the sun’s light. This date is subject to change because it is fully dependant on the earth’s rotation around the sun and the earth’s axis.
Have you ever heard of midsummer?
In various European countries, the summer solstice is recognized as midsummer. Hence, Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” and the setting he describes in his story. Midsummer was a common celebration in europe for many years. Those who celebrate midsummer were not just celebrating to celebrate, they were celebrating life itself. Generally, these celebrations consisted of an abundance of food, flowers, dancing, and fun!
How can you participate in celebrating Litha?
Be outside! Because this is a celebration of the longest day of the year and the first true day in summer, make some time to appreciate nature! You can go on a hike, soak up some sun, or go swimming! I know I will be enjoying myself by some body of water for sure.
Bonfires - Historically these cultures would create bonfires. Bonfires were used for a multitude or reasons, such as offerings to the God/Goddesses of ones choosing, as a ceremony to release unwanted possessions or ideas, or they were burned and jumped through for symbolic purposes. If you are unable to create a bonfire due to your living arrangement, use a candle and make small offerings of written intentions or releasing energy.
Read, write, or listen to stories and legends about fae. Open your mind and investigate the myths and legends of old. Try to understand what the morals, values, and beliefs behind these stories are.
Set up or reorganize your altar. Altars do not have to be this huge extravagant creation. An altar can be as simple as the top of the dresser, a bookshelf, or a small end table. The size or location of the altar does not matter, what matters is the thought and intention you place into the altar. Think of the use of the altar and what you want to be represented or honored in this location. Try having different aspects of the main elements, (earth, fire, water, & air) as offerings to the spirits, deities, or even just the universe itself.
Dry orange slices and use them as garland for prosperity & abundance.
Comment below on how you celebrate litha or the summer solstice! I would love to hear the different ways that you enjoy your longest day of the year.
