Summer Solstice 2025
Summer Solstice
Here in the Northern Hemisphere the Summer Solstice will be approaching in the next few weeks. This is the celebration of the return of the Sun. Our days will become longer and the nights shorter, marking the beginning of summer. Astrologically this can happen anytime between June 20th-23rd. This year the Solstice will occur on Friday June 20th at 10:42 PM EST. Many will consider Saturday June 21st our first official day of summer.
The Summer Solstice represents all the work and planning we put in during the darker months of winter. The word Solstice comes from the Latin word for sun (sol). Ancient people added stare or sistere, which means “to stand still” or “to stand or stop”. A time when the Sun seems to be standing still in the sky. This is a gentle reminder to stand back and just be.
Tribes of Native America celebrated the longest day of the year with a Sun Dance, singing, drumming, prayer or meditation. Meanwhile Aztecs and Mayans marked this day to build structures meant to align with the shadows of the two solstices. In pagan traditions the solstice is known as Litha, a day to balance the elements of fire and water. The Druids call this midsummer. On this evening the veil between our world and the fairy realm is at its thinnest, if you're lucky it’s believed you may catch a glimpse of fairies during the evening of the Summer Solstice.
As we celebrate the height of our Sun’s power, I encourage you to take a moment to reflect on the last six months from our last Solstice. Look at how far you have come. Give thanks for all the people, places and things in your life. Truly enjoy this time as you set new intentions for the next six months.
Below you will find a few rituals for the Solstice.
Have a wonderful Summer Solstice!
Yvette
Summer Solstice Rituals:
Sun Ceremonies: Watch the Sun Rise & Set.
Fire Ceremony: Set new intentions or midsummer wishes for the next six months & release them into the flames.
Create a Summer Altar with flowers, candles, anything representing the elements.
Give Thanks. As summer unfolds take time to appreciate many things in your life. Stand and stare at nature's beauty. Admire the happiness and laughter of children playing. Life can be challenging, soak up the sun to renew your energy. Just for today give thanks for your abundance of blessings.
Connect. Feast with friends and family. Celebrate all that you have achieved from the previous Winter Solstice to the present moment.
Honor the Fairies. Leave an offering for the fairy folk on Midsummer’s Eve such as moonstones, crystals, or anything sparkly.
Flower Power. Hang lavender, sage, marigold or rosemary in your home for protection and healing.
