As I’ve spoken about other celebrations throughout the year rather than talk about the traditional Christian’s Christmas, I thought I’d talk a bit about the Pagan’s and their celebration of Litha or Mid Summer, the Summer Solstice.
The Summer Solstice falls around the 21st of December, and considered a solar festival, bonfires would be lit at Midsummer Eve. People would jump the fire, and later spread the ashes on the fields as a blessing, as well as fertilisation.
Offerings are left to faeries or energy beings who may help you, or who share your environment. Offerings such as milk, honey or bread is usual, and this promotes goodwill, and increases the harmony of your home.
Mid Summer is a time of change, a time for rites of re-dedication to the God and Goddess, as well as divination related to love and romance.
To celebrate you can decorate your home with summer flowers, herbs and fruits, and summer colours like yellow, green and blue. Have an outdoor picnic feast to bask in the warmth of the day, and eat fresh fruits and vegetables—ideally from a farmer’s market or harvested from your own garden.
I can’t speak for the other religions such as Hinduism, Islam, Buddhism and Judaism whom also have festive celebrations at this time of year, as I don’t know enough about their traditions but please leave me a comment with your traditions.
Simply,
Natalie Laura
simplynatalielaura 