Summer Solstice 2006

The Summer Solstice occurs at 8:26 am EST on Wed, June 21st, 2006. Here is an excellent reference chart that outlines the Wheel of the Year. http://www.archaeoastronomy.com/2006.shtml

If you are in Australia or in the Southern Hemisphere then you would be celebrating YULETIDE at this same moment.

http://www.archaeoastronomy.com/2006.shtml

Litha / Summer Solstice / Mid-Summer's Eve

In the Wiccan world of Earth cycle appreciation,
there are 8 major holy days/holidays
that are used to celebrate the Earth.

There are 2 Solstices, 2 Equinoxes and 4 cross quarter moments
(times exactly midway between each of the 4 Solstices or Equinoxes.)

The next major Wiccan holy day or Sabbat is the Summer Solstice, named Litha in the Wiccan world. This year we celebrate Litha on June 21st. It is the longest day of the year. The sun is regarded as being at its highest power and influence.

Check out The Chart for a complete calendar list and times of occurances of Solstices, Equinoxes or Cross Quarter events for your part of the world.

For more information about Litha or some of its customs you may email me
or look online for more information.

Blessed Be,

FireHawk
Pendleton, Indiana

Mid Summer's Eve \ Summer Solstice

Litha

On June 21st we observe the Summer Solstice. The Summer Solstice is the longest day of the year; it is the day on which the northern hemisphere of the Earth is tilted the most TOWARDS the Sun. This is the longest day and shortest night of the year. In ancient times this day was called Litha or Mid Summer's Eve. In neo times our calendars state that it is the FIRST day of Summer although I disagree with this on a fundamental level. To most, Summer has already been here for a while. And it actually marks the HALF WAY point thru summer as in another 1.5 months summer will be overwith. Pagans regard this day as a very powerful and important day. It is the day the Sun or "male/god" aspect is at its highest "power". This is a great day to give thanks to the Sun and the warmth/food it provides all of us. Without the Sun, we would not have all of the life cycles that we all require to exist. There are many websites out there that give more details about this Holy Day... try www.religioustolerance.org
BB,
FireHawk