wheel of the year

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Midsummer (SummerSolstice)
approximately June 21st
Theme: First day of Summer; the Triumph of the Sun; Magick Type: Solar Holiday; longest day of the Year

Midsummer is the counter-point to Yule on the Wheel of the Year. It is the longest day -- the triumph of the light half of the Year. When the sun has reaches its peak, the Wheel turns to restore balance. In the days that follow, the nights will grow longer and longer, the sun’s power slowly waning. Traditionally, the Celts set wheels (as symbols of the sun) on fire and rolled them down the hillsides to celebrate the power of light, and recognize the imminent decline of the sun. Bonfires were lighted and jumped, and the ashes scattered on the fields to bless and fertilize them.

Despite the name, Midsummer actually marks the first day of Summer. It is a time of ripeness and fullness. Summer is in full bloom and the Earth is alive with abundance and the promise of the harvest to come. The energetic, passionate dance of Beltane has deepened to a rich, deep pulse... the promise of fertility maturing into abundance. Yet the knowledge that tomorrow the sun begins to wane reminds us that all things fade ... that change is inevitable ... that Nature demands balance. Here in the height of Summer, we do not mourn the passing of things, but celebrate the the fullness of our experiences.

Midsummer has long been associated with magick, bright mystery and faery realms. It is a time when the veils between the human world and the Land of Faery may be easily parted. This is a night to leave offerings of milk and bread for the Fay Folk to ensure their goodwill and promote harmony. Midsummer is a good time for magickal workings and journeying between the worlds.