Litha: A Beginner’s Guide to Celebrating the Summer Solstice

The Wheel of the Year turns once more, and with it comes the radiant energy of Litha, the Summer Solstice. Falling around June 20th–22nd in the Northern Hemisphere, Litha marks the longest day of the year—when the sun shines at its peak and nature is in full bloom.

Whether you’re new to witchcraft or simply curious about seasonal celebrations, Litha is a beautiful, vibrant sabbat to start connecting with the rhythms of nature.

Here’s how to celebrate Litha as a beginner witch:

What is Litha?

Litha (pronounced LEE-thuh) is a pagan festival rooted in ancient sun celebrations. It honors the height of summer, when the sun god is at his strongest, and the earth is bursting with abundance, fertility, and life.

Traditionally, it’s a time to celebrate light, growth, protection, and passion. But it’s also a turning point—the days will begin to shorten from here, reminding us of the ever-turning cycle of life, death, and rebirth.

Easy Ways to Celebrate Litha as a Beginner Witch

You don’t need to perform a complex ritual to connect with the energy of Litha. Here are some simple, beginner-friendly ways to celebrate:

 

1. Light a Candle (or Bonfire)

Fire is central to Litha celebrations, symbolising the power of the sun. If you can’t have a bonfire, a simple candle on your altar or windowsill works beautifully.

Intention: As you light your candle, speak or think an intention—for warmth, growth, joy, or gratitude.

2. Decorate with Summer Herbs and Flowers

Adorn your altar or home with herbs like lavender, rosemary, thyme, or St. John’s Wort, and fresh blooms like sunflowers, daisies, or marigolds.

Tip: Create a small bouquet or herbal bundle and let it dry as a charm for abundance or protection.

3. Make a Seasonal Feast

Celebrate the earth’s bounty by preparing a meal using seasonal fruits and vegetables—think berries, honey, fresh herbs, and summer greens.

Ritual Touch: Say a short blessing before eating to honour the sun and earth.

4. Spend Time in the Sun

Take a mindful walk, garden, or simply sit in the sun. Notice the light, the warmth, and how nature feels at its most alive.

Practice: Close your eyes and visualise the sun charging you with energy and vitality.

5. Craft a Sun Charm or Amulet

Use yellow or gold ribbon, herbs, sun symbols, or crystals like citrine or amber to create a charm that captures solar energy.

Use: Hang it in your window or wear it when you need a confidence boost.

6. Set Intentions and Release Fears

Litha is a great time to check in with your goals. What are you growing in your life? What needs light to flourish?

Try This: Write down something you want to let go of on a piece of paper. Burn it (safely!) as a way of releasing what no longer serves you.

 

Litha Altar Ideas for Beginners

Your altar can be as simple or elaborate as you like. Here are some easy elements to include:

• A yellow, gold, or orange cloth
• A candle to represent the sun
• Fresh flowers or herbs
• Crystals like sunstone, citrine, carnelian
• A small dish of water to balance the fire energy
• Symbols of growth: seeds, fruit, leaves

 

Final Thoughts

Litha is a joyful, empowering sabbat that reminds us to celebrate life, soak in the sunshine, and honor the magic of nature. As a beginner witch, the most important part of any celebration is your intention and connection—not perfection.

Whether you light a candle or dance barefoot in your garden, you are weaving your magic with the rhythm of the earth.

Blessed Litha x