Midsummer

Midsummer, or Litha, is a neo-pagan solstice celebration in honor of the longest day of the year. While some traditionally begin summer on this day, the pagan tradition follows the beginning of summer on Beltane in May. As the sun reaches its highest point in the sky, and daylight hours are at their longest, it is midsummer.

1. Date: June 21
2. Can also be celebrated anytime between June 20th through June 23rd
3. Also known as Litha
4. Preceded by Beltane
5. Followed by Lughnasadh
6. Solstice holiday
7. Celebrates life, growth, fertility, pregnancy
8. The Earth Goddess is considered to be swollen with child at this time
9. Falls opposite of Yule on the Wheel of the Year
10. An auspicious time for handfasting rituals

The celebration of Midsummer stretches back into the history of many cultures once steeped in pagan beliefs. In many European countries that were converted to the Christian faith, the Catholic Church shifted the celebration of Midsummer to focus on the birthday of John the Baptist. Catholic authorities of that time were known to associate popular pagan festivals and celebrations with Christianity so that they could make an easier transition into the Christian faith.

While some may associate Litha with the sun Gods because of the celebration of the longest days of light, it is actually a time to honor the Earth Goddess, who is swollen and pregnant with the life and abundance that will fuel the harvest festivals that begin with Lughnasadh in August. Because Midsummer is a time to celebrate growth and life, many of the rituals involve flowers. Because of their abundance during June, Lilies and St. John's Wort are just two types of flowers that can be used at this time to decorate altars. In both ancient and modern times, the bonfire is a significant symbol of the celebration. Jumping over the bonfire is a tradition believed to bring luck, prosperity and protection, and for the newly handfasted couple it's thought to bring happiness to the marriage.