Celebrate Summer Solstice!
Welcome to the Season of Light! This year, the Summer Solstice falls on June 21, the longest day of the year. There’s lots more time to get outside chores done in the evening or enjoy a leisurely evening walk. Traditionally both the summer and winter solstice, along with the spring and autumn equinoxes, mark the beginning of each new season. It’s no surprise that June is a traditional month for weddings! Celebrations centered around these special times of year have been around since time out of mind and still thrive to this day. As a ritual of both paganism and Wicca, the Summer Solstice, known as Litha, holds a special place in the traditional Wheel of the Year.
Astrologically speaking, the Summer Solstice is the start of the summer season and ushers in the first summer zodiac: Cancer. Cancer is one of the four cardinal signs and denotes the energy of starting something new. We move from the lively, energetic energy of Gemini to the nurturing, comfort-loving energy of Cancer.
One place that is renowned for Summer Solstice is Stonehenge in the UK, where thousands of people gather to observe the phenomenon of viewing the rising sun as it is perfectly framed by the massive ancient stones on the site. Swedes enjoy a never-ending party where guests wearing flowered crowns enjoy pickled herring, dill-flavored new potatoes, and flavored schnapps. Up in the Arctic Circle at Fairbanks, Alaska, there is a traditional Midnight Sun Baseball Game to starts at 10:30 pm and goes until roughly midnight.
No matter what your geographic location or spiritual affiliation may be, everyone can get into the swing of summer solstice. Here are some ideas to help you usher in the warm and bright energy of midsummer – or do your own thing!
1. Build a fire. Whether you have a small backyard firepit or you’re up for gathering with friends at a nearby beach or open meadow to build a bonfire, it’s all about the light, and there’s a lot of magic in fire.
2. Enjoy flowers. Wear flowers and/or decorate your home with summer flowers and fruits, or go see a local garden exhibit.
3. Do some gardening. Even if you’ve just got a little window box herb garden in the city, or you’re a full-blown horticulturist, get your hands in the earth. Plant a seed of ‘prosperity’ to grow over the summer season.
4. Dive into the water. Now that we’ve got the elements of fire and earth, don’t forget how much of summer is about water! Jump in the pool or ocean, or take a leisurely bath at home with a lighted candle flickering as you meditate on your summer dreams.
5. Enjoy music. To add the element of air to your celebration, use music! Sing, dance, or listen to your favorite playlist. Try to find tunes that totally vibe with summer. Here’s an old classic: “Hot Fun in the Summertime” by Sly and the Family Stone.
6. Have a feast. Whether it’s a backyard barbecue or a potluck with friends and family, gather your nearest and dearest and enjoy summer’s bounty. Be sure to include some of the classics of summer harvest, like watermelon, tomatoes, and corn on the cob!
