Litha 2025: A Witches Guide to the Pagan Summer Solstice Celebration

[SunKat]

Litha, also known as the Summer Solstice, is a pagan holiday celebrated on or around June 21st in the Northern Hemisphere. It is the longest day and shortest night of the year, and marks the official start of summer.

Litha stands as one of the four 'lesser sabbats,' marking the pinnacle of the solar calendar. In pagan traditions, it is a time to celebrate the power of the sun and the abundance and growth of the natural world. It is also seen as a time of balance between light and dark, and a turning point in the year when the days begin to grow shorter and the nights longer. This holiday is a time of abundance, growth, and light, and is associated with a variety of correspondences, including colours, crystals, deities, traditions, and ways to observe the holiday.

When is Litha 2025?
Litha celebration will land on June 20, 2025 in the Northern Hemisphere. In the Southern Hemisphere, Litha, or the summer solstice, occurs around December 21st or 22nd. This is when the Southern Hemisphere experiences the longest day and the shortest night of the year, marking the official beginning of summer.

How to Pronounce Litha
Litha pronunciation is "LEE-thuh" with the emphasis on the first syllable. The word "Litha" is believed to have originated from the Anglo-Saxon word for "midsummer" and is still used by modern pagans and Wiccans to refer to this holiday.

Litha Meaning
As a spiritual holiday, Litha is a time for rituals and ceremonies that honour the sun and the energy of the summer season. It is a time to connect with the natural world and to celebrate the beauty and diversity of life. It is also a time to reflect on personal growth and to set intentions for the rest of the year.

Overall, the meaning of Litha is one of joy, abundance, and connection to the natural world. It is a time to celebrate the light and warmth of the sun, and to embrace the energy of growth and transformation that comes with the summer season.

Litha Correspondences

Litha Colours
The colours typically associated with Litha include yellow, gold, green, and blue. Yellow and gold represent the sun, which is at its strongest and brightest during this time of year. Green represents growth and abundance, while blue represents the sky and the waters of life.

Litha Herbs
Litha, or the summer solstice, is associated with a variety of herbs that symbolize the energy, growth, and warmth of the season.

Here are some herbs associated with Litha:

• St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum): This herb is often associated with the summer solstice and is believed to have protective and healing properties. It's in full bloom around this time.

 

• Lavender (Lavandula spp.): Known for its calming and soothing properties, lavender is often used during Litha rituals to promote relaxation and spiritual connection.

 

• Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris): Mugwort is associated with psychic awareness and protection. It's sometimes used in divination practices during Litha.

 

• Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla): Chamomile is known for its calming properties and is often associated with relaxation, making it suitable for Litha rituals focused on introspection and meditation.

 

• Rose (Rosa spp.): Roses are symbols of love and passion and are often associated with the sun. They can be used in rituals or as decorations to bring beauty and positive energy.

 

• Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis): Lemon balm is associated with the sun and is believed to attract love and positive energy. It has a refreshing and uplifting scent.

 

• Mint (Mentha spp.): Mint is often associated with prosperity and vitality. It can be used in rituals to bring abundance and refresh the energy.

 

• Sage (Salvia officinalis): Sage is known for its cleansing properties. It can be used to purify a space before Litha rituals or celebrations.

 

• Yarrow (Achillea millefolium): Yarrow is associated with courage and protection. It's often used in rituals to enhance personal strength and resilience.

 

• Calendula (Calendula officinalis): Calendula, with its vibrant yellow and orange petals, is associated with the sun and is often used in rituals for joy and positive energy.

These herbs can be used in various ways during Litha, such as in incense, sachets, wreaths, or as offerings in rituals.

Flowers for Litha
Flowers are an important part of the Litha celebration. You can use them to decorate your altar, make flower crowns, or simply enjoy their beauty as a reminder of the abundance and growth of the summer season. Some flowers that are commonly associated with Litha and the summer solstice include:

• Sunflowers: These vibrant flowers are often associated with the sun and the power of light.
• Roses: With their beautiful blooms and sweet fragrance, roses are a symbol of love, beauty, and passion.
• Lavender: This fragrant herb is often associated with relaxation, purification, and healing.
• Marigolds: These bright orange and yellow flowers are often used in rituals to honour the sun and the power of fire.
• Daisies: These simple yet cheerful flowers are a symbol of innocence, purity, and new beginnings.
• Chamomile: This delicate flower is often used in rituals to promote calmness, relaxation, and restful sleep.
• Yarrow: This herb is often associated with courage, strength, and protection.

Crystals:
Many crystals are associated with Litha, including citrine, sunstone, tiger's eye, and amber. These stones are said to bring warmth, abundance, and vitality, and can be used in a variety of ways during Litha rituals and celebrations.

Deities:
There are a variety of deities associated with Litha, depending on your spiritual tradition. Some popular options include the goddesses Brigid, Gaia, and Freyja, as well as the gods Lugh, Apollo, and Helios. These deities are often associated with the sun, fire, and growth, and can be called upon to bring blessings and abundance during Litha celebrations.

Litha Tarot Cards
While there isn't a specific set of tarot cards exclusively associated with Litha, the themes and energies of the summer solstice can be reflected in certain cards. Here are some tarot cards that might resonate with the themes of Litha:

• The Sun (XIX): The Sun card is one of the most direct associations with the energy of Litha. It represents positivity, success, and the height of vitality. It signifies the triumph of light over darkness.

 

• The Emperor (IV): The Emperor card is associated with structure, order, and leadership. It can symbolize the power of the sun in providing stability and guidance during the height of summer.

 

• The Empress (III): The Empress represents fertility, abundance, and growth. It is a card that aligns well with the themes of the summer season when nature is flourishing.

 

• The Wheel of Fortune (X): This card represents cycles and the turning of the seasons. It can symbolize the natural order of life and the changes that come with each season, including the transition from spring to summer.

 

• The Ace of Wands: Wands in the tarot often represent fire and energy. The Ace of Wands, in particular, signifies new beginnings, inspiration, and the spark of creativity—qualities associated with the active and vibrant energy of summer.

 

• The Nine of Cups: Known as the "Wish Card" or "Happiness Card," the Nine of Cups represents emotional fulfillment and contentment. It can be seen as a card of celebration, aligning well with the joyous atmosphere of Litha.

 

• The Lovers (VI): The Lovers card represents harmony, unity, and the coming together of opposites. It can be interpreted as a card of balance and connection, reflecting the balance of light and darkness during the summer solstice.

 

• The Four of Wands: This card is often associated with celebrations, achievements, and a sense of community. It can represent the joyous gatherings and festivities that often accompany the summer season.

Remember, tarot is a highly personal and intuitive practice. Feel free to choose cards that resonate with you and the specific aspects of Litha that you wish to focus on in your readings and rituals.

Traditions:
There are many different ways to observe Litha, depending on your personal beliefs and traditions. Some common practices include:

• Lighting bonfires or candles to celebrate the light and warmth of the sun
• Decorating altars and sacred spaces with flowers, herbs, and other symbols of growth and vitality
• Holding outdoor rituals or gatherings to connect with nature and honour the turning of the seasons
• Creating and sharing meals made with fresh, seasonal ingredients
• Participating in activities that celebrate creativity, such as dancing, singing, or making art

Ways to Observe the Holiday:
If you're looking to celebrate Litha, there are many ways to get involved. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Spend time outside, whether that means going for a hike, having a picnic, or simply sitting in the sun and enjoying the warmth
• Make a wreath or other decoration using flowers, herbs, and other natural materials
• Light a candle or bonfire and meditate on the energy and vitality of the sun
• Create a special meal or drink using seasonal ingredients, such as berries, herbs, or honey
• Connect with friends and loved ones and participate in a group ritual or celebration.

Litha Altar Ideas
Decorating your altar for Litha can be a creative and meaningful way to align your sacred space with the energy of the summer solstice. Here are some ideas for altar decorations:

Colors of the Season:
  - Use fabrics or cloths in summer colors like bright yellows, greens, and oranges.
  - Consider incorporating gold or yellow candles to represent the sun.

Floral Arrangements:
  - Adorn your altar with fresh flowers, especially those in bloom during the summer such as sunflowers, roses, or daisies.
  - Create floral wreaths or garlands to symbolize the abundance and growth of the season.

Herbs and Plants:
  - Display bundles of herbs associated with Litha, like St. John's Wort, lavender, rosemary, or chamomile.
  - Place potted plants or herbs on your altar to bring the energy of nature indoors.

Symbols of the Sun:
  - Incorporate solar symbols such as sun disks, representations of the sun, or depictions of sun gods or goddesses.
  - Use gold or yellow candles to represent the power and warmth of the sun.

Crystals and Gemstones:
  - Arrange crystals that resonate with the energy of Litha, such as citrine, sunstone, or clear quartz.
  - Use crystals to create patterns or grids on your altar for added energy.

Symbols of Fire:
  - Decorate with symbols of fire, such as candles, a small cauldron, or a representation of the element of fire.
  - Consider using candles in the shape of the sun or flame to enhance the fire symbolism.

Seasonal Symbols:
  - Include representations of the summer season, such as seashells, beach sand, or symbols of summer activities like picnics or sun hats.
  - Place images or figurines of animals associated with summer, like bees or butterflies.

Sacred Tools:
  - Arrange your athame, wand, or other ritual tools on the altar.
  - If you have a chalice, fill it with water to represent the balance of the elements.

Art and Creativity:
  - Display artwork or crafts that reflect the themes of Litha, such as drawings or paintings of the sun, flowers, or seasonal landscapes.
  - Create or hang a summer-themed mandala.

Divination Tools:
  - Place your tarot cards, runes, or other divination tools on the altar for readings related to the summer season.
  - Include symbols of divination, like a pendulum or scrying mirror.

Remember, the most important aspect is to personalize your altar with items that resonate with you and your connection to the energy of Litha. Feel free to be creative and intuitive as you create a sacred space that reflects the abundance, growth, and joy of the summer season.

Ritual for Summer Solstice
A ritual for the summer solstice, also known as Litha, can be a beautiful way to celebrate this seasonal turning point and connect with the energy of the sun. Here is a simple ritual that you can try:

Materials:

• A candle (ideally yellow or gold)
• Incense (such as frankincense or sandalwood)
• A small bowl of water
• A small bowl of salt
• A flower or herb that represents summer (such as sunflower, rose, or lavender)

Steps:

1. Find a quiet, outdoor space where you can perform the ritual. If you cannot be outside, find a space near a window that lets in natural light.
2. Set up your materials on a flat surface, such as a table or altar. Light the candle and the incense, and take a few deep breaths to centre yourself.
3. Hold your hands over the bowl of water and say, "I bless and consecrate this water in the name of the sun and the summer season."
4. Sprinkle a pinch of salt into the bowl of water and stir it with your fingers. Say, "I purify this water in the name of the sun and the summer season."
5. Hold the flower or herb in your hand and say, "I offer this flower (or herb) in gratitude for the abundance and growth of the summer season."
6. Take a few moments to meditate on the energy of the sun and the power of the summer season. Allow yourself to feel connected to the warmth and light of the sun.
7. When you are ready, blow out the candle and allow the incense to burn down. Pour the water and salt outside, thanking the earth for its blessings.

This simple ritual can be adapted to suit your personal beliefs and traditions. You may choose to add additional elements, such as singing, drumming, or dancing. The most important thing is to allow yourself to connect with the energy of the sun and the joy of the summer season.

Overall, Litha is a time of joy, abundance, and growth, and is a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature and celebrate the turning of the seasons. Whether you choose to observe the holiday in a traditional way or create your own rituals and practices, this is a time to honour the sun and all that it brings into our lives. 🌻

 

https://www.moonfallmetaphysical.com/s/stories/litha

[Mystic Wolf]

Litha, Summer Solstice 

Litha, also called Midsummer, celebrates the earth’s abundance and beauty. This is the longest day of the year. From this day, the days grow shorter until Yule. The trees and fields are full and prosperous. The young animals and birds play on the fields and in the trees. This is the time for faeries, when the ‘Feast of the Faery’ is celebrated. It’s said that at dusk on this day, the gates between the worlds open, and the faeries can enter our world. Wish them welcome on this day, and maybe they’ll bless you with wisdom and happiness.

Herbs
Lavender, chamomile, rose, daisy, lily

Incense
Frankincense, lemon, rose, wisteria, lavender

Colors
Blue, green, yellow

Decorations
Dried herbs, potpourri, sea shells, summer flowers, fruits

Food
Summer fruits, mead, fresh vegetables

Ritual

Option 1
Take something which symbolizes whatever it is that has caused you problems before and that you can burn. Maybe a piece of paper with the details written on it.

‘The God and The Goddess are at their highest
The longest day is filled with light
Now is the time to forget and move on
Let old problems be where they belong’

Set fire to the chosen object and visualize that the problems it represents are burned away.

‘By the power of the Lord and Lady I banish you.
Get out of my life and let me be
The time for magic is everywhere
The power of the Lord and Lady is in abundance
Help to fill me with joy and bring me into harmony with the land
Be with me through it all and lead my hand
Tonight is enchantment.
Help me find the magic there.’

Option 2
Here’s a suggestion for a midsummer ritual which can be performed alone. The ritual focuses on the contact with nature’s rhythm and with nature spirits like faeries, dwarfs, undines and salamanders. These are traditionally active at Midsummer. The ritual is also a salute to the Sun God, at the height of his power. The Goddesses powers are awakened for blessing and happiness.

If you don’t have an athame you can use your hands, and remember: when you direct energy, pull the energy from earth and heaven and direct it through yourself – don’t empty yourself of energy! Good luck and happy midsummer!

Prepare the altar with everything you’ll need in advance, and decorate it with the flowers of the season. The altar should traditionally be placed in the north. Make a wreath of flowers or leaves for yourself.

Prepare food and drink, something you associate with midsummer, maybe a strawberry cake and a light wine. Build a bonfire, which you’ll light during the ritual. Place it a bit south of the center of the circle. The bonfire acts as a symbol of the God. Place a cauldron with water and flowers a bit north of the middle of the circle. The cauldron acts as a symbol for the Goddess.

Start with a meditation over the significance of the season, over the power of the Sun and the fertility of the Earth, and over how the God’s and Goddesses aspects are reflected in the Sun and the Earth at this time.

End the meditation by saying:
‘I am here to celebrate the Power that moves the Universe. I unite with the rhythm in an eternal dance and express joy over the Mystery. I walk in pride with my head held high, for the Earth is my Mother and the Sky is my Father, and I am the Gods’ child.’

Point the athame down into the water bowl on the altar, and send cleansing energy down into the water. Visualize how the water sparkles with pure energy, and say: ‘I cleanse and consecrate the water, in the names of the Great Goddess and the Horned God!’

Point the athame down into the salt bowl, and send energy down into the salt, visualize the salt grains being charged lades and sparkling with energy, and say: ‘I consecrate and bless the salt, in the names of the Great Goddess and the Horned God!’

Mix some of the salt in the water. Lift the bowl with both hands, and say: ‘Substance of this earth, salt and water united, I call you forth in joy and respect for you to cleanse and close this circle, in the names of the Great Goddess and the Horned God!’

Sprinkle yourself, the altar and around the circle with salt and water. Light the incense. Point the athame towards the incense and send energy into it, while you say:

‘I consecrate incense for cleansing and well-being, in the names of the Great Goddess and the Horned God!’

Cleanse yourself, the altar and around the circle with incense. Draw the circle with the athame. Send the energy out, and visualize that you’re creating a barrier of energy, while you say:

‘I draw a circle of power, a holy and inviolable meeting place between the worlds, a place for power and love, a shield and a defense for the power I will raise. In the names of the Great Goddess and the Horned God I declare the circle open and active!’

Remember that the circle actually is spherical, rather than a wall of energy. It’s over and under you, as well as around you.

Go to the east, and make an opening in the circle. In your hands you hold a bowl with milk and honey. Invoke the elemental powers of Air, and say:

‘I call upon you, powers of the East, faeries and all air beings!
Come to my circle!
I beg you to take part in my celebration and guard this portal.
Take this gift as a sign of my benevolence.
Merry Meet and welcome!’

Put the bowl with milk and honey down. Go to the south, and make an opening in the circle. In your hands you hold cinnamon sticks and ginger root. Invoke the elemental powers of Fire, and say:

‘I call upon you, powers of the South, salamanders and all fire beings!
Come to my circle!
I beg you to take part in my celebration and guard this portal.
Take this gift as a sign of my benevolence.
Merry Meet and welcome!’

Put the cinnamon sticks and ginger root down. Go to the west, and make an opening in the circle. In your hands you hold a bowl with apple juice and blue flowers. Invoke the elemental powers of Water, and say:

‘I call upon you, powers of the West, undines and all water beings!
Come to my circle!
I beg you to take part in my celebration and guard this portal.
Take this gift as a sign of my benevolence.
Merry Meet and welcome!’

Put the bowl with apple juice and blue flowers down. Go to the north, and make an opening in the circle. In your hands you hold crystals and some pieces of metal (for examples coins or a piece of jewelry).

Invoke the elemental powers of Earth, and say:
‘I call upon you, powers of the North, dwarfs and all earth beings!
Come to my circle!
I beg you to take part in my celebration and guard this portal.
Take this gift as a sign of my benevolence.
Merry Meet and welcome!’

Put the crystals and metal pieces down.

The gifts for the elementals can be replaced with other things if you have other ideas. Sit down by the cauldron. Focus on the Goddess as the Mother, as the fertile Summer Queen. Place your hands around the cauldron and say:

‘Great Goddess, Mighty Mother, Summer Queen,
I call you! You who are adorned with leafed branches and flowering meadows,
Come to me! Source of life, bringer of fertility,
By seed and by root, by bud and by stalk,
By leaf and flower and fruit,
By life and love I call you!
Goddess, come to my circle and bless me!’

Dip your fingers in the water, and touch your forehead, mouth, heart, womb and feet. Sit quietly for a while and focus on the Goddess. Go to the bonfire. Turn towards the sun and light it. Lift your arms towards the sun, and say:

‘Mighty Sun King, Lord over Life and Death,
I salute you at the height of your power!
Yours is the power which brings the seed up from the soil.
You make meadows and forests green with your warmth.
I salute you, you who in ancient times were called Lugh, Apollo and Balder!
I salute you as the sun of creation with a thousand names,
And beg you to come to my circle and bless me with your power!’

Sit quietly for a while and focus on the God. Jump over the fire! Do something to honor the Gods. You can have (for example), dance, sing or play an instrument if you know how.

Take the chalice from the altar, and put a drop from the cauldron into it. Move it over the fire. Hold the chalice with both hands, while you say:

‘In the names of the Great Goddess and the Horned God
I bless the power which brings forth the fruit on the branch!’ Toast with the gods and drink. Pour some wine on the ground.

Take the cookie from the altar, and put a drop from the cauldron on it.

Move it over the fire. Hold it with both hands while you say:
‘In the names of the Great Goddess and the Horned God
I bless the power which brings the grain up from the soil!’ Eat a piece of the cookie, and put a piece on the ground.

You can make a tarot reading or cast runes – midsummer is a good time for divination.

To conclude the ritual, do the following

Go to the north, and say:
‘Powers of the North, dwarfs and all Earth beings,
I thank you for your presence!
Thank you and farewell!’
Close the opening you made during the invocation.

Go to the west, and say:
‘Powers of the West, undines and all Water beings,
I thank you for your presence!
Thank you and farewell!’
Close the opening you made during the invocation.

Go to the south, and say:
‘Powers of the South, salamanders and all Fire beings,
I thank you for your presence!
Thank you and farewell!’
Close the opening you made during the invocation.

Go to the east, and say:
‘Powers of the East, faeries and all Air beings,
I thank you for your presence!
Thank you and farewell!’

Close the opening you made during the invocation.

Go to the middle of the circle, lift your arms and say:
‘I thank the Great Goddess and the Horned God, The Sun King,
For their power and blessing!’

Place your hands on the ground, and collect the rest of the energy in the circle. Send it down into the ground.

 

[SunKat]

Thanks Don for all the additional information!  Midsummer Blessings!

[Mystic Wolf]

Thank you SunKat.