The summer solstice, also known as Midsummer, has been celebrated by various pagan cultures for thousands of years. This ancient tradition marks the longest day of the year and the official arrival of summer. In pagan culture, the summer solstice holds great significance as it represents the power of the sun at its peak. It is believed to be a time of heightened energy and a connection to nature and the universe. One of the most well-known traditions during the summer solstice is the lighting of bonfires. These bonfires serve as a symbol of the sun's strength and are believed to bring luck and protection to those who participate.
Though it might seem that the middle of summer would naturally fall on the longest day of the year, the summer solstice and Midsummer’s Day are distinct events, normally a few days apart between 20 and 24 June. The difference is thought to stem from variations in the Julian and Gregorian calendars.
So much so that on no other night could a bowl of water and some pieces of paper tell you your true love s initials, or could bunches of dandelions bless your house with more than damp bedsheets. Midsummer was seen as a time when the normal laws of nature or divinity could be suspended, when spirits and fairies could contact humans, when humans could exceed the usual limitations of their world.
These bonfires serve as a symbol of the sun's strength and are believed to bring luck and protection to those who participate. People gather around the bonfires to sing and dance, enjoying the warmth and light. Another common tradition is the gathering of herbs and flowers, which are believed to possess magical properties during this time.
Party like a Pagan: 5 ways to celebrate the summer solstice
With all the celebration and neolithic celestial alignment that goes on at Stonehenge, there’s no denying that the summer solstice is perhaps the oldest excuse to throw a party going. From solitary witches to groves of druids, most Pagan faiths have honoured the solstice with rituals, feasts, and just a hint of debauchery across Europe for thousands of years.
Midsommar, for example, is more than just a cult horror movie, it was a national holiday marking the solstice in Norway up until 1771 and is still celebrated in Sweden and Finland today.
So if you're ready to hack it with heathens, slay like a solitary, or dance until dawn with druids, here are five historic ways to party like a Pagan.
Read more about: Popular Culture
Weird and wonderful traditions to welcome the summer
1. Pull an all-nighter
The shortest night of the year was as much to be celebrated as the longest day, making the eve of the solstice the pre-drinks of this pagan party. Nowadays it’s common to wake to greet the sunrise on the solstice, but for ancient Pagans it would’ve been an all-night affair, celebrating the sun and welcoming its rise.
It has also long been heralded as a powerful time for protective charms and divination. So much so that on no other night could a bowl of water and some pieces of paper tell you your true love's initials, or could bunches of dandelions bless your house with more than damp bedsheets.
Plague, carbuncles, or ‘the quartan ague’ got you down? According to one archaic West Country charm, some coal dug from beneath the root of mugwort or plantain on the eve of the solstice has got you covered!
Read more about: Ancient History
7 ancient facts about British midsummer traditions
2. Make a sacrifice
If laying off chocolate for the whole of Lent seems too much of a long-term commitment, a quick solstice sacrifice may be the alternative for you. Many historians agree that Stonehenge was used for ritual sacrifices on occasions such as solstices. Sadly, in Neolithic times, the sacrifices were probably human.
Inside the Stonehenge Circle of Stones | Image: Shutterstock.com
Fortunately, we moved on from there with Celtic and Germanic folks usually opting for a good sturdy wild boar as their sacrifice to appease the deities. Whether human, hunted, or livestock, throughout history sacrifices were generally the best people could afford. Ahead of the rituals they were well looked after, then respectfully killed and prepared for the feast in an attempt to ensure an abundant harvest.
In my community, no group ritual is complete without a proper circle song or two. We usually use the popcorn method (women spontaneously choose a song they feel led to sing, and the others join in) or you can use a song circle book like Rise Up Singing or Circle Round. If you've musicians in the group, they want to play along. Rattles and drums are always a fun addition to a song circle.
These herbs and flowers are often used to create garlands and wreaths, which are worn as a symbol of fertility and to ward off evil spirits. In addition to bonfires and herb gathering, pagans also engage in rituals and ceremonies to honor the summer solstice. These may include meditation, prayers, and the performing of ancient dances and chants. Overall, the traditions of the summer solstice in pagan culture revolve around celebrating the power of the sun and connecting with nature. It is a time of joy and reverence for the earth and the cycles of life..
Reviews for "Embracing the Sun's Energy: Pagan Beliefs and Customs on the Summer Solstice"
1. Sarah - 1 star - I found "Traditions of the summer solstice in pagan culture" to be highly disappointing. The content lacked depth and failed to provide any meaningful insight into pagan practices associated with the solstice. The author simply listed a few basic rituals without delving into their significance or historical context. Additionally, the writing style was dry and uninspiring, making it difficult to engage with the text. Overall, I would not recommend this book for anyone seeking a comprehensive understanding of pagan traditions during the summer solstice.
2. John - 2 stars - I was hoping to gain a greater appreciation for pagan culture and rituals surrounding the summer solstice by reading this book. Unfortunately, it fell short of my expectations. The information provided was basic and didn't go into enough detail to truly grasp the significance of these traditions. Additionally, the book lacked organization, jumping from one topic to another without a clear structure. It left me feeling unsatisfied and wanting more. I would suggest looking for a more in-depth and comprehensive resource on the subject.
3. Emma - 2 stars - I was excited to learn more about the pagan traditions surrounding the summer solstice, but this book left me feeling underwhelmed. The content seemed scattered and superficial, failing to explore the deeper meanings and historical context behind these rituals. It read more like a random collection of facts rather than a cohesive exploration of pagan culture. Additionally, the writing style was monotonous and lacked any personal or engaging voice. Overall, I was left disappointed and would not recommend this book to others seeking a comprehensive understanding of pagan traditions.