Celebrating Litha: The Summer Solstice

Litha, also known as the Summer Solstice, is a time of vibrant energy and radiant sunlight. Celebrated around June 21st in the Northern Hemisphere, Litha marks the longest day and shortest night of the year, when the sun is at its zenith. This festival honors the power and abundance of the sun and the peak of the light’s strength before it starts to wane.

It’s a time to honor the sun, enjoy the beauty of nature in first fruit, and embrace the vitality and abundance that the season brings. The earth is brimming with life, and the longer daylight hours offer more time to connect with the natural world and enjoy her bounty.

In many Pagan beliefs, this is the time of year when the Oak King has had his reign, and has come to his peak of strength and virility. He is overtaken by the Holly King, who presides over the shorter and colder days of the year. Not to fret however, we still have that long summer ahead of us, even as the days slowly grow shorter.

TRADITIONAL CELEBRATIONS

1. Bonfires and Fire Rituals: Lighting bonfires is a common tradition, symbolizing the sun’s power and energy. People often gather around the fire, dance, sing, and sometimes leap over the flames to ensure good luck and protection.

2. Feasting and Gatherings: The Solstice is a time for communal feasts featuring summer fruits, fresh vegetables, and seasonal dishes. Have a picnic or a backyard BBQ. Table meals, (even picnic table meals) with family and friends is a great way to connect and celebrate the season while enjoying the world around us.

3. Nature Walks and Outdoor Activities:

Enjoying time outside, whether it’s hiking, walking around the neighborhood, or going to a park, allows us to connect with Nature, and admire her beauty and the life she supports.

4. Floral Decorations: Decorating with flowers, especially those in bloom during the season, is a way to bring the spirit of The Solstice into homes and altars. You might consider making flower crowns for the smalls, or a garland to hang over your door.

5. Rituals and Offerings: Many people perform rituals to honor the sun and the earth, expressing gratitude for the light and growth of the season. Offerings of flowers, herbs, and berries are made to deities associated with the sun and nature. This season is the perfect time for performing abundance rituals, and for trying something new.

By celebrating Litha, we honor the life-giving energy of the sun and the interconnected nature of all living things. So, light a fire, gather with loved ones, and celebrate the radiant energy of Litha. Embrace the longest day of the year and let the warmth and light of the sun fill your heart and soul.

Consider these recipes for your celebration!

HERBAL LEMON COOKIES
1 cup Butter or margarine
2 cups Sugar, divided
2 large Eggs
1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
2 1/2 cups Flour
2 teaspoons Baking powder
1/4 teaspoon Salt
1/3 cup Lemon Grass, Lemon Balm or Lemon Basil  chopped

Cream the butter and 1-3/4 cups sugar. Add the eggs and vanilla. Beat well. Combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and herbs. Add to the creamed mixture and mix. Drop dough by teaspoonfuls, 3 inches apart, on a greased cookie sheet. Flatten slightly with a fork or cup bottom. Sprinkle lightly with the remaining sugar. Bake at 350 degrees for 8 to 10 minutes or until barely browned. Cool slightly, then remove to a rack.

FRUIT SALAD

Ingredients:
1 cup Mango
1/2 cup Pine Nuts (optional)
1 cup Pineapple, to be cut into bite-size chunks
1 cup Apple, to be cut into bite-size chunks
1 cup Peaches, to be cut into bite-size chunks
2 or 3 Bananas, to be sliced (depending on personal preference)
1 small jar Red Cherries
1/2 cup Coconut (if desired)

Take a 1/2 cup of Orange Juice and mix in 3 tbl. of pure maple syrup. Pour this over the fruit. This will keep the fruit from turning brown.

Litha Lemonade

Ingredients:

• 6 lemons
• 1 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
• 6 cups cold water
• Ice cubes
• Fresh mint leaves (optional)
• Lemon slices for garnish (optional)

1. Juice the Lemons: Cut the lemons in half and juice them until you have about 1 cup of lemon juice. You can use a juicer or squeeze them by hand.
2. Make the Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of water and the sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved. Let it cool.
3. Mix the Lemonade: In a large pitcher, combine the lemon juice, sugar syrup, and the remaining 5 cups of cold water. Stir well.
4. Serve: Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the lemonade over the ice. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and lemon slices if desired.

Enjoy your Solstice celebrations!

Savoring Radiance: Embracing the Transition from Beltane to Litha

As Beltane’s fiery fervor starts to cool off and the sun rises towards his peak, we’re caught between the wild fertility celebrations of Beltane and the full-on summer vibes of Litha, the summer solstice.

This is the perfect time to get outside, soak up nature’s bounty, and really get in touch with Mother Earth. But it’s not just about enjoying the scenery. This time is all about nurturing the intentions you set during Beltane, helping them grow and flourish.

And hey, if you’re feeling inspired, let that creativity flow! Whether it’s painting, writing, or diving into a new project, let the energy of the season fuel your passions. Take a moment to bask in the warmth of the sun and be grateful for the burst of creativity and life all around you.

Soak up the sunshine, join outdoor rituals, and let your creativity flow. This time between Beltane and Litha is all about growth, vitality, and celebrating nature’s beauty under the radiant sun.