Guest Author - Fiona Blackwolf

Litha is the celebration Summer Solstice. The Solstice is the time when the sun is at the height of its power. It is the longest day of the year, midsummer. This is the time when the gardens are producing fruits and vegetables of summer. Wildlife is flourishing and the trees are covered in green leaves. On this day we celebrate the God at his highest point. He is strong and vibrant. Together with the Goddess who is in her Mother aspect, he rules the summer. However, it is also a time of transition. After Midsummer, the sun begins its yearly descent. The days will get shorter and shorter until the Winter Solstice when it begins its rise to power again.

There are two basic myths that accompany the Summer Solstice. The first is the mythology that follows the wheel of the year and the agricultural cycle of the lands. In this myth we see the Sun King who was born at Winter Solstice, now grown to power. He rules the summer, but in the fall will give himself to the land in an endless cycle of birth, death and rebirth. The Goddess, Queen of Summer, is in her Mother aspect, with child. The child, who is also the God, and will be reborn on Winter Solstice.

The second common story of the Solstices is that of the Oak King and the Holly King. The Oak King, who came to power at Yule, now engages in battle with his brother, the Holly King. At Litha, the Holly King will emerge victorious and will continue to rule through the dark half of the year until he is again challenged and defeated by the Oak King, who will rule the light half of the year.

Midsummer is also a time when it is said that fairies abound. They bring their playfulness and merriment, especially at Midsummer’s Eve. Shakespeare’s popular play “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” is a story of the Queen of the Fairies Titania and her king Oberon, having a bit of fun at the expense of the mortals.

How can we celebrate Litha? Decorate with and wear bright colors. Have lots of fresh flowers and candles or fire to honor the summer and the God of the Sun. Hot and Spicy foods honor the heat of the day and fresh fruits and vegetables celebrate the abundance that is available at this time. It is a day to celebrate life and make wishes for the future.

Other Litha related links:

Midsummer: The Summer Solstice

Summer Solstice Prayer & Meditation Celebration

Midsummer/Summer Solstice