The summer solstice holds great significance within witchcraft. It is therefore often celebrated as one of the eight Sabbats or festivals within the Wheel of the Year. Known as Litha or Midsummer, this Sabbat marks the peak of the sun’s power and the longest day of the year. It is a time of abundance, growth, and the celebration of life.
Litha and Witchcraft
One way Litha is incorporated into witchcraft is through rituals and ceremonies. These practices often take place outdoors, embracing the energy of nature and the sun. You can’t enjoy the sun indoors, so get yourself out there and delight in the light!
Some common elements of solstice rituals include:
Bonfires
Lighting bonfires is a central part of Litha celebrations. The fire represents the sun’s energy and power – witches gather around it to honor the sun and its life-giving properties. Jumping over the fire or passing through its smoke is believed to bring purification and blessings. That said, do be careful. If conditions have been dry, you run the risk of causing a massive fire which endangers wildlife, habitats, others and yourself.
Sun Worship
Litha is a celebration of the sun’s strength. Accordingly, during their rituals witches often pay homage to the solar deity or invoke sun-related energies. They may recite prayers, chant, or perform sun salutations. These are ways to connect with the sun’s vitality and harness its energy. Don’t worry too much about saying the right thing either. The Universe would love to hear your thoughts!
Herb and Flower Magick
Litha is also a time of abundant plant growth, and hence witches often incorporate herbs and flowers into their rituals. They may create floral wreaths or garlands to wear, weave herbs into spellwork or create herbal potions and infusions for healing and empowerment. Beleaf in your witchcraft!
Divination
The solstice is considered a particularly potent time for divination and gaining insight into the future. Witches may subsequently use divination tools such as tarot cards, runes, or scrying techniques to seek guidance and clarity during this pivotal period of the year. Just always remember though that it’s guidance, not a prophecy. You always have free-will, so use divination but don’t be ruled by it.
Celebrating Nature’s Bounty
The summer solstice is associated with the abundance of nature and the harvest to come. Witches may partake in feasts, picnics, or rituals that involve the sharing and consuming of seasonal fruits and vegetables. This act not only nourishes the body but also expresses gratitude for the Earth’s abundance. And who doesn’t love a picnic?
Setting Intentions
As the sun reaches its peak, witches often use the energy of the solstice to set intentions for the future. They may perform spellwork or engage in meditation and visualization practices to manifest their desires and goals, aligning themselves with the vibrant energy of the season. So use the sun like a slingshot and fire your intentions as far into the universe as possible!
Litha and You!
Ultimately, the incorporation of the summer solstice into witchcraft varies among different traditions and individual practitioners. Some may focus on specific deities, while others may emphasize the symbolism of the sun or the natural rhythms of the Earth. The key is to honour and align with the energy of the solstice in a way that feels authentic and meaningful to the witch or coven involved. So draw some inspiration, but ultimately be yourself!
PS: If you enjoyed this post, have a look at some of our others. We have posts on Summer Solstice spells, a look at some of the Summer Solstice traditions, how to create your own Summer Solstice altar and how to incorporate sunflowers into your witchcraft. Or have a look at our shop for your witchy supplies!
