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Litha
Litha/ Summer Solstice
Observed on Summer Solstice,
Usually June 20 or 21
Litha, more widely known as the Summer Solstice, is also
called Midsummer. It is a celebration of growth, and of
the relationship between the Lord and Lady of the Greenwood.
This is the longest day of the year, and in certain
traditions, the Holly King slays the Oak King on this night; the Sun and the light begin to wane after this holiday. So, it is
a somewhat bittersweet celebration, the last
great revel of the Summer growing & mating season, in preparation for the harvest festivals soon to come. The Goddess prepares Herself and Her husband for the sacrifice They must both make soon.
Traditions associated with Litha include that of heightened Faery
activity, much as on Beltane. Also, Druids gathered
certain herbs, including the sacred mistletoe, on Midsummer; many modern Pagans follow suit and take advantage of
the soon-to-fade bounty of Summer to gather their magical herbs for the coming year. Colors include gold, green and white.
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