Midsummer


 The summer solstice occurred a few days ago on June 20th, but it was recorded as June 24th by the old Julian calendar. The comments below pertain to Northern Hemisphere dates.


The event originated in Sweden during the Stone Age as a pagan holiday with rituals for successful harvest and fertility. The day is the midpoint of the growing season, between planting and harvest. Celebrations include festivals with picnic feasts, dancing around a maypole, decorations of garlands and greenery.


At Stonehenge, folks gather to watch the sun peak between the famous rocks.


Some cultures consider it one of the four “Quarter Days,” i.e., the Solstice and Equinox dates. The traditional celebrations are Lady Day (Feast of the Annunciation/Ostara), Midsummer (Lithia), Michaelmas (Mabon), and Christmas (Yule). These quarter days were when servants were hired, school terms began, and rents were due. In addition all accounts must be settled to ensure no lingering debts or lawsuits.


The Cross-Quarter days are Imboic (St Brighid’s Day/Groundhog’s Day), Beltane (May Day), Lammas (Lughnasadh), and Samhain (Witches’ New Year/Halloween). Pagan and NeoWicca celebrate these dates with fire festivals. Bonfires are believed to banish evil spirits.


As the English church worked to transition the people from pagan ways, they celebrated Midsummer as a feast day for the Nativity of John the Baptist (his birthday) since it falls six months before Christ’s birth.


Many cultures, both ancient modern, practice Solstice/Midsummer rites. For many, it is a romantic tradition enhanced with vodka and coupling. In fact, there is a baby boom in Sweden nine months later.

Do you celebrate Midsummer/Summer Solstice? Do you have any traditions related to the other Quarter or Cross-Quarter days?

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