Summer Solstice Rite

The Summer Solstice, also called Litha, marks the longest day and shortest night.

The Sun is at the height of its power and is now beginning to decline. In common with the other Solstice and the Equinoxes the date of this festival will vary from year to year, taking place between the 20 and the 23rd of the month. Also in common with the other Sabbats it would have been traditional for celebrations to have taken place over several days.

If you have a group of people it can be great fun to enact the battle of the Oak and Holly Kings. At this time Lord Oak, who presides over the waxing year, gives way to Lord Holly, who will rule until the Winter Solstice. Select two combatants to wrestle or fight with staves until the one playing the Oak King gives way to the other. It is a good idea for them to practice in advance so that they do not harm one another, but still give a good 'show' so that the rest of the assembly can cheer and encourage the battle. Before the battle the Lord Holly should challenge the Oak King who taunts and insults, for Oak's time is over. Make Oak and Holly crowns; the Oak one being worn before the battle and the Holly one after. We usually stage this as a family event with the youngest person present being given the honor of presenting the crown. We also follow the battle with a barbeque, the best pieces being given to the Holly King who is allowed to preside over any subsequent games.

"Personal responsibility includes knowing when to mind your own business."

~from the Real Witches Year by Kate West

oh how cool!!! all we are doing is getting a few of our friends over and bbq, enjoy each others company (the wine will help that and finish it off with a bon-fire

Have A Blessed Litha.................
Bri

(bump)

I hope everyone had a wonderful Summer Solstice/Blessed Litha.  

That sounds like it would be neat.

LE it is good to see that you are still around. Maybe you could come by and have a cuppa with us some time soon, I hope!?!