Litha: Celebrating the Summer Solstice
Litha, also know as the Summer Solstice, the longest day of the year and occurs on the 20th of June in 2025
During Litha the sun will arrive at its highest point so we celebrate the growing of crops, and take heart in knowing that the seeds we planted in the spring are now in full bloom. It's a period to appreciate the sun and its divine power.
Solstice activities:
-Bonfires, Sunbathing, Outdoor yoga or meditation
-Playing in the water, Making Flower Crowns
-Creating solstice suncatchers, Making altars of light
-Gathering symbolic midsummer herbs
Carneliean, Sunstone, Citrine, Orange Calcite and Clear Quartz are all linked
to the Sacral and Root Chakra (orange and red). Which is associated with creativity and inventive ideas.
Citronella- not only for summer bugs, citronella brings protection, cleanses and clears negative energies. It can also strengthen ones life force.
Day at the Beach
Some pagan traditions included traveling to sacred wells or other bodies of water on the day of the solstice. This was a time for healing and to honor the gift of water.
We are lucky in Wisconsin to be surrounded by lakes. Honor the gift of water by taking a day trip to a beach with friends or family. Pack a lunch with fresh fruits and vegetables. Play beach games including ring toss, volleyball or frisbee. Cool off by jumping and swimming in the water.
Take time to relax by soaking up the sun or reading a book.
If you can’t make it to the beach, bring the beach to your home. Soak up the sun outside and cool off in a sprinkler or with a water balloon fight. Listen to summer-themed music while playing traditional beach games. No matter what you choose to do, take this time to have fun with family or friends.
Faerie Magic
Litha is the perfect time for faerie magic, as the veil between our world and the faerie world is thin. Faeries or the Fae Folk are mythical beings that exist in a variety of different cultures. There are many different types of faeries including brownies, pixies, leprechauns, elves, devas and gnomes. Faeries are typically tricksters, so be careful what you ask for.
Firefly Wish: Fireflies are a symbol of faeries and fire. Gently catch a firefly on your finger. Make a wish and gently blow the firefly away into the night.
Faerie Picnic: Faeries are said to be drawn to sweet things, including food. Pack a picnic with faerie-themed treats including honey, milk, cake, cookies or bread. Find a quiet spot in nature to enjoy your faerie treats.
Daisy Fortune: Use a daisy to determine if your crush loves you or not. Pick a flower, preferably a daisy, and hold it in one hand. Pull off one petal at a time, saying “they love me” or “they love me not,” with each petal. The last petal pulled off will determine if your crush loves you.
