Litha (pronounced “LEE-THA”) is known also as the Summer Solstice, and Midsummer. It is a Sun and fire festival that marks the longest day and shortest night of the year.
Historic Litha/Summer Solstice Traditions:
✧ Traditions in ancient/pre-Christian Rome:
In the run up to and during the Summer Solstice, ancient Romans celebrated and honoured the goddess of the hearth, Vesta, during an aptly named festival - Vestalia. During this festival, alongside generic merriment (eating and drinking), women would leave offerings for Vesta in her temples hoping to bring blessings to their families.
✧ Traditions in ancient/pre-Christian Greece:
Around the Summer Solstice a festival named Kronia was held to honour and celebrate the god of agriculture, Cronus. It was a time of merriment and feasting, and during this time the social structures of Greece were flipped on their head: slaves were not required to fulfil their duties as slaves and were allowed to enjoy the festival alongside those of higher standing.
✧ Traditions in ancient/pre-Christian Europe:
In Europe, it was customary in many faiths and religious circles (including Slavic, Celtic, and Germanic) to celebrate the Summer Solstice with bonfires. Bonfires were believed to bolster the energy of the Sun and ensure a bountiful harvest come the end of the harvest season. The fires were believed to drive away and banish negative energies and evil spirits.
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