Summer Solstice
June 20, 21, 22
Similar Celebrations: Litha, Alban Hefin, Midsommar
|
Recipes:
Food for a low key celebration or Festive Gathering: Grilled Peaches Grilled Salmon with Lemon and Dill Heirloom Tomato Goat Cheese Tart Savory Herb Spirals Green Summer Salad with Green Goddess Dressing Watermelon Strawberry Salad |
About this holiday:
Summer Solstice is a fire ritual and is best celebrated outdoors. It corresponds to the midday sun, but can be celebrated at sunrise as well. It is the height of the sun’s power, the peak of summer. It is the longest day of the year; the sun light hours are at their peak. It is the balancing point between the energetic and expansive feeling of summer vacation and the dreamy introspection of a lazy afternoon. This magical time of year has a long history and has been celebrated all over the globe. For some cultures it was a time to celebrate the feminine; to pay homage to the spirits of fertility, asking that the crops be abundant. For some it was a time to gather the tribes for business and festivals. Many cultures still celebrate with bonfires and dance. This is a time of year to focus on enjoying the moment, to fully love something knowing that it will not last; to fully be present and to trust. It is a perfect time get out into nature and spend a little time communing with the elemental spirits. Take some time to connect to your dream world and your creativity. The lazy summer warmth relaxes our inhibitions and allows easier access to our deeper self, our unconscious mind and our creativity. It is also a good time to take a few risks, push your boundaries a little; go camping alone, try a new sport, create something, make new acquaintances, spent some time at a crowded summer festival. The menu for a Summer Solstice celebration should be centered on fresh seasonal berries, fruit and fresh herbs, and honey. Foods like fruit tortes, fruit salads, sangria, herb breads and fresh grilled fish. Summer mead is traditional drink for this celebration. |