Litha is a Wiccan and modern pagan holiday that celebrates the Summer Solstice – the longest day of the year. It falls between Beltane and Lughnasadh on the Wheel of the Year and usually happens between 20-22 June in the Northern Hemisphere, when the sun is at its highest point.
Wiccans and pagans see Litha as a time full of light, energy, and abundance. It’s all about celebrating nature at its peak and recognising that from this point on, the days will slowly start to get shorter.
The name Litha (pronounced LEE-tha) marks the time when the sun seems to “stand still” in the sky for a few days – rising and setting in the same spot. That’s actually what “solstice” means in Latin: solstitium, or “sun stands still.”
Unlike big Wiccan fire festivals like Imbolc, Beltane, Lughnasadh, and Samhain, there’s no solid evidence that ancient Celts celebrated the summer solstice with formal rituals. Modern Litha traditions are inspired more by Norse Midsummer celebrations, Roman festivals like Vestalia, and various European folk customs.
Traditional Litha Rituals
Sun Water:
Place water in a jar under the sun to absorb solar energy – use it later in spells or to anoint yourself.
Create a Dreamcatcher:
Make a sun catcher or herbal wreath to hang in your window, these serve as reminders of the sun’s protection.
Host a Bonfire or do Candle Magic:
Light a fire or candle to honour the sun’s power. Write wishes or intentions on paper and burn them to release them into the universe.
Decorate your Altar with Flowers:
Bring in some of the summer abundance with fresh flowers and use these to refresh your altar. Look for what is locally available and make your home feel bright and full of light.
Herb Gathering and Blessings
Midsummer is a powerful time to collect herbs, cleanse and bless them for magical or healing use.
Litha Symbols & Colours
Litha is full of rich symbolic imagery, it honours passion, fire, abundance, and the fullness of life.
Litha Symbols
- Colours: Gold, yellow, orange, red, green, bronze, white
- Crystals: Citrine, sunstone, amber, carnelian, tiger’s eye
- Animals: Stag, bee, eagle, butterfly, lion, horse, rooster, firefly
- Flowers: Sunflowers, roses, marigolds, calendula, daisies, chamomile
- Plants: Basil, rosemary, lavender, lemon balm, mint, mugwort
Crystals for Litha/Summer Solstice
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| Citrine Citrine radiates positive energy and joy. It warms, cleanses, energises, and is known for its ability to manifest goals, making it a perfect representation of the sun’s powerful energy. |
Sunstone Sunstone carries the light and happiness of the sun, enhancing intuition, bringing good nature, and providing a source of strength if you feel dependent on others emotionally. |
Tigers Eye This protective stone helps turn fears into practical action by aiding decision-making. It helps manifest your dreams and bring them to reality, reflecting the dynamic energy of the sun. |
Carnelian Known as a stone of motivation and endurance, leadership and courage. Carnelian’s fiery energy boosts vitality and will, helping you embrace change and welcome new experiences. |
Order your Litha crystals here.
Enjoy Litha x
I hope this is helpful to you, feel free to share with anyone you feel would benefit.
