June 21 – Summer Solstice, is one of the four solar holidays or fire festivals, and is considered the turning point at which summer reaches its height and the sun shines longest. Midsummer is preceded by Beltane, and followed by Lammas.
Litha represents the balance between fire and water, both outside of and within you. It’s a time of power, fuel, passion, enthusiasm, and rejuvenation. It is the season of expansion and ripeness. Mother Earth is generous, giving more than we need, and we experience deep feelings of abundance. Summer is a time to celebrate all that will come to fruition during the season of warmth, as our energy is boosted by the warmth of the sun.
From now on the days grow shorter and the nights grow longer and we are drawn back into the Dark to complete the Wheel of the Year.
At this time the Oak King, is rich in abundance, but he too surrenders his reign to his brother twin, the Holly King, and the descent begins.
Litha correspondences:
Traditions and Symbols of Midsummer – Bonfires, The Oak Tree, Faeries
Plants – Mistletoe, Fern, Lily of the Valley
Food – Strawberries, honey
Incense – Sage, Mint, Lavender
Stones – Amber, Jade, Emerald
Animals – Peacock, Butterfly, Bee, Dragonfly