Hey all, I know I'm a bit late to be talking about the Summer Solstice, but here it is anyway: an explanation of how many cultures celebrated the solstice. And so, without further interruption, we will continue our travels throughout The Wheel of the Year.
Litha, the Summer Solstice falls on June 21st this year and is the longest day, and shortest night of the year. This day in particular was said to be the best day to start things with the best chance of getting them done. (Well, I would be able to get things finished, too, if I had probably 20 some hours of daylight!) People felt that the sun was a big factor in success (based on astrology) and that activities done on this day were certain to be successful.
Many ancient landmarks were also based on the path of the sun, or so many historians suspect. This can be seen at everyone's favorite vacation spot: Stonehenge. Believed to have been created by the Druids, Stonehenge's central stones are in alignment with the sun's movements during the day of the Summer Solstice.
This was also a time that in Ireland and England, misty light circles could be seen around small hills, often called "Faerie mounds". (Guess why!?) These mounds were said to be where faeries lived and that on this night as well as some others, the realm of faeries could be seen by humans. Faeries were believed to be very crafty and enjoyed playing tricks on people. Many folks would hear beautiful music and smells across the countryside, and even see gardens of 'unearthy' beautiful flowers.
Well, there's some information on the Solstice. Hope it comes in handy sometime for ya'll.
-Magick
floating back into the shadows...
