Summer Solstice- June 19 - 22 Also known as Litha is when the powers of nature are at their peak. A great time for magick of all kinds when the Earth is saturated with the fertility of the Goddess and God. Bonfires are lit and leaped over encouraging fertility, purification, health and love. Cauldron fires are lit and mirrors used to capture the fire or sun. Altars are decorated with a ring of flowers around the cauldron which the athame is in. The cauldron being a Goddess symbol and athame God, this is a symbol of their union. The color is white. Lughnasadh (Loo-nassa) - Aug 1st Also known as Lammas or Feast of Bread is the time of first harvest and a time to give thanks for the bounty that the Goddess and God have given us. The days light grows shorter as the God represented by the sun slowly begins losing His strength. In this turn of the wheel seeds, fruit and vegetables fall to the ground for us and to ensure a good harvest next year. Special breads are made to eat and pieces thrown into the fire. We celebrate the warmth of the sun and the bounty of harvest in the food given to us as summer draws to an end. Corn dollies are made in Goddess and God shapes. The colors are red and orange. Autumn Equinox - Sept 21st The Autumn Equinox, also known as Mabon, signifies the second harvest often the corn harvest. The days and nights are again equal and the God prepares for His temporary slumber. Nature prepares for winter. As with every turn of the wheel, it's a good time to wander through the wilderness and attune with nature. Ritual celebrations often include apple cider and corn bread. Altars are decorated with things associated with fall. Leaves in their endless varieties and colors, pine cones, acorns etc. The colors are red and brown but any color associated with Autumn are appropriate. |