Wheel of the Year: Summer Solstice
This year, the Summer Solstice, called Litha by contemporary Pagans, falls on June 20 in the Chicago area. From the point of view of those living in the northern hemisphere, the sunrise reaches its furthest point north and appears to “rest” at that northernmost point (solstice from Latin solstitium “point at which the sun seems to stand still”) for several days before gradually moving southward along the horizon. For those who want the scientific details: the summer solstice in the Northern Hemisphere occurs on June 20, 2026, (at 9:22 pm CDT) or June 21, at 02:22 am UTC (Coordinated Universal Time).
The Summer Solstice has been marked since prehistoric times. In Europe, there are many stone circles, of which Stonehenge is one, that align certain menhirs with the sunrise on the Summer Solstice. There is also a circle of stones in the southern Sahara desert, dating to between 6,700 and 7,000 years ago, arranged to highlight the Solstice sunrise. Historical records from Europe mention celebrations such as bonfires on hilltops or putting tar and straw on wagon wheels, setting them alight, and rolling them down a hill into a pond or river.
The meaning of Litha is one of joy, abundance, and connection to the natural world. It is a time to celebrate the light and warmth of the sun and to embrace the energy of growth and transformation that comes with the summer season. The transformation of seeds into plants can be a metaphor for personal transformation. Take stock of what you started this spring, have patience while you see what happens, and plan for what you want to accomplish by the fall.
This is also a time to take the energy of growth and transformation outward, to the community. There is much that needs to be done, many areas of action, whether social, political, or environmental. You can’t do it all; trying to do so will dilute your impact and cause burnout. Pick an area for action and focus your energy there. Do what you can, as much as you can. Remember that while others may choose to work in different areas, we are all moving in the same direction: to create and maintain a healthy community and Web of Life.
~ Leslie Peet