It is about fertility and Wiccans recognise it as the union between God and Goddess.
Summer Solstice
or
Midsummer
falls around the 21st June in the northern hemisphere and the 21st December in the southern hemisphere. We have now reached the longest day. The sun and the God are at their zenith. Some traditions believe that evil spirits roam freely at this time so bonfires are lit for protection.
Lammas,
Lughnasadh
(pronounced lunasar) or
Harvest Festival
is celebrated around the 1st/2nd August in the northern hemisphere and 1st/2nd February in the southern hemisphere. This is all about giving thanks for the grain harvest which are the first products to be harvested on the land. A good harvest means an easier winter.
Autumn Equinox
or
Mabon
occurs around the 21st September in the northern hemisphere and the 21st March in the southern hemisphere. Like its opposite on the Wheel it marks equal day and night. It is also another celebration of harvests such as fruit and the vine.
And so we are back at the beginning, except there is no beginning, just a continuation of cycles within cycles. There are many resources available if you want to explore this subject further and there are also many traditions and ways of recognising these festivals. My advice is to do what feels right for you.
Jackie Notman is a copywriter, feng shui consultant and e-commerce retailer. This article is from The Little Shop of Charms – Resources and information on New Age, Pagan, Wicca, Gothic, Spiritual, Angels, Pyshics and all things Magical