Midsummer

The Summer Solstice is derived from the Latin “sol” meaning “sun” and “sistere” meaning “to stand still”, because of the Sun’s movement from north or south comes to a standstill. In many Celtic Nations, this Sabbat is referred to as Midsummer because the ancient Celts only had two seasons, summer (which began at Beltane) and winter (which began at Samhain) with the Summer Solstice (Midsummer) being placed between the two. It is also referred to as the first sign of Cancer in the Northern Hemisphere and the first sign of Capricorn in the Southern Hemisphere. In fact, for half the year (from the Vernal or Spring Equinox to Autumnal or Fall Equinox) the Northern Hemisphere tips to the Sun with Midsummer or the Summer Solstice being at its height, while in the Southern Hemisphere the Sun being at its height around Yule or the Winter Solstice. Since the Sun is at it height and is the hottest, due to the fact that it is closer to the Earth, the whole planet enter summer.

Midsummer is also sometimes referred to by neo-pagans as Litha, though in Traditional British Witchcraft we prefer to use the traditional name Midsummer or the Summer Solstice. Traditionally, at Midsummer bonfires were lit and leaped to ensure prosperity, good luck, and to ensure a good harvest.

In Traditional British Witchcraft, Midsummer is celebrated with the lightening of bonfires, feasting, and merrymaking and to commemorate the strength and height of the Sun (God).