Litha - 20th - 23rd June

Litha is approaching, this sabbat is known most commonly as the Summer Solstice. This is the time when the Sun is at it's most powerful and it is also the longest day of the year. Litha is generally celebrated on the 21st but it varies between the 20th and 23rd. This is dependant on the Earth's rotation around the Sun.

Litha has been celebrated since the Ancient times and honouring the Sun's power is still a very important rite, as it gives life and prosperity. Showing your dedication to the Sun King can be shown by performing a rite as most Covens would do, for those that are solitary it does not have to be in the form of a ritual. Below I have listed the many possible ways you can honour the Sun King on Litha.

• Spend time in nature, this is the time when the Sun will shine the most. Go out and enjoy it, take a long stroll or have a picnic in the park.

• Watch the Sun rise and set.

• Help your local community and pick up rubbish in the park, donate old clothes and items to a charity or even help out a neighbour.

• Have a bonfire! Get together with friends and family to celebrate the Sun God. Some believe the fiery aspect of the bonfire symbolises the Sun. If you are among Wicca friends, you may wish to perform the Midsummer Night Fire ritual. This rite can be performed by lighting a bonfire, expressing your gratitude to the Elements and maybe performing a spiral dance... if you wish.

• On a much quieter note, you may want to spend the day to yourself, work on your spirituality or learn a new skill such as herb properties.

• Clean your house, wipe the slate clean as they say.

• Be with your family and bond with them, go to the park, zoo, museum or cinema. Or just stay at home and do some baking. 

• BBQ! Very popular in my family, invite friends and family to an afternoon of lovely summer food and fun. Organise some games for the kids and enjoy the sunshine. You can also take the opportunity to decorate your home in the colours of the Sun.

• Our ancestors had been celebrating the Summer Solstice and marking it with rituals long before us. Honour the season like them, with ritual and prayers. You must recognize the sun and it's power. You can set up a litha altar, by putting midsummer fruits on it, candles, solar symbols and many more.

• ABOVE ALL and the most important part of Litha, is repecting and honouring the Season.