-Litha-

-Summer Solstice-

Midsummer solstice is celebrated from sunset on 20th June for 3 days.This is a very special time as it is when the Sun is in the sky for the longest - the longest day! The Sun God is at his most powerful, before his decline into the Autumn months. What is interesting is that 21st June is actually considered by some as the first day of summer - exploiting only 2 seasons per year. Summer would then run til Yule - 21st December - and so Winter would start.

Many cultures far and wide still celebrate the Summer Soltice where Sun Dances are said to bring healing to the Earth. Many societies have used stone circles as a focus for the celebrations. Stonehenge is one of the most famous sites in the world and is still used - albeit by special access, by Druids at sunrise on 21st June.

What I enjoy about the longest day is knowing were are now entering the Autumn, (Fall), which is along with Winter my favourite seasons. I do not dislike any season in particular. Summer is full of lazy days where people have crazy ideas about going to do things on the spur of the moment and this is very much related to Litha. Live for the moment, enjoyment, etc.

It was also a custom in days gone to light beacons across the land to celebrate the power and warmth of the Sun. The Sun, of course, is vital to every living thing upon the Earth. It's warmth helps swell the grain, fruits and vegitables for the pre-Winter harvest. It lifts the moods of people and makes everything they do more effective.

The Summer Solstice is, by virtue of the fact it is a Sun celebration, a very masculine time. Fertility, courage, success, achievements, reaching of personal goals, etc. A time for removing depression and anxieties.

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