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Harvest (loo na' sa) is held on the second full moon after Midsummer (usually the full moon in August). It is also called Lughnasadh (loo na' sa), but we usually do not call it by this name (Lughnasadh, or "Lugh's Day" is an Irish name and not the original name of the holiday). This is the time of the harvest when the gains of the year are gathered home. It is when the spiritual achievements and goals one started in the early year (after Samhain, before Beltane) begin to manifest and reach their full potential. Lughnasadh is also a time of preparation for the end of the year and the coming winter. The ritual for this day can involve harvesting the first of the crops. For those who don't have crops to harvest, fresh bread can be baked and shared by all present to symbolize the harvest, and there can be a time of sharing with others those plans and goals that one wishes to come to fruition before the end of the year. Essential foods for the feast include grain products, cakes, and breads as well as autumn fruits and vegetables. Ale and mead are good drinks. Common colors associated with Lughnasadh are yellows, browns, and oranges and the best time of day to celebrate this holiday is evening or sunset. |
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