1. Choose a Festive Location

Litha is all about celebrating nature, so what better way to honor the solstice than hosting your party outdoors? A garden, park, beach, or backyard can serve as a stunning backdrop for your festivities. If you’re unable to celebrate outside, consider bringing nature indoors with lots of plants, flowers, and natural decor.

• Tip: Set up near a space that can catch the sun’s rays, such as near a large window or under the open sky. Decorate with sun-themed items, golden fabrics, and floral garlands.

2. Set the Mood with Litha-Themed Decorations

The colors and symbols of Litha create the perfect backdrop for an inviting and celebratory atmosphere. Think of bright, bold hues—gold, yellow, green, and red. These represent the sun, fire, and the abundance of the earth. Incorporate flowers, candles, and solar symbols into your decorations.

• Decor Ideas:
  • Sun-shaped candles or lanterns
  • Floral crowns and wreaths (lavender, chamomile, daisies, sunflowers)
  • Brightly colored tablecloths and napkins
  • Sun motif fairy lights or lanterns
  • Fresh fruit displays (think of summer fruits like strawberries, peaches, and berries)

3. Create a Menu Inspired by the Sun and Nature

Food and drink are an important part of Litha celebrations. Prepare a spread that celebrates summer’s abundance, using seasonal fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Keep things light, fresh, and vibrant to reflect the season’s energy.

• Menu Ideas:
  • Main Dishes: Grilled vegetables, fresh salads, skewers, and a variety of cheeses
  • Sides: Fruit platters (watermelon, strawberries, blueberries, peaches), corn on the cob, and bread with fresh butter
  • Desserts: Honey cakes, fruit tarts, or berry sorbets
  • Drinks: Sun-tea, lemonade, or herbal infusions with ingredients like mint and chamomile; for adults, consider mead, sangria, or a light summer punch
• Tip: Use honey in your dishes to symbolize the sweetness and abundance of the season.

4. Create a Litha Ritual or Ceremony

Rituals are a beautiful way to deepen the spiritual connection to the solstice. Consider leading your guests in a small ceremony to honor the sun and celebrate its powerful energy.

• Suggested Ritual:
  1. Light a Sun Candle: Have each guest light a candle to honor the sun, setting intentions or sharing their wishes for the coming season.
  2. Create a Sun Circle: Form a circle with your guests and celebrate the light by singing, chanting, or sharing stories of summer memories.
  3. Offer Gratitude: Take a moment to express gratitude for the sun, nature’s gifts, and the growth you’ve experienced so far this year.

5. Incorporate Fun Activities

Litha is all about joy and celebration, so include activities that reflect the lighthearted nature of the day. Games, dancing, and crafts are great ways to bring everyone together and embrace the energy of the solstice.

• Activity Ideas:
  • Flower Crowns: Set up a crafting station where guests can create their own flower crowns using fresh flowers and ribbons.
  • Dancing: Play lively music and encourage a Midsummer dance around a fire pit or in a circle.
  • Games: Have outdoor games like sack races, ring toss, or even a scavenger hunt featuring sun-related items.
  • Soak in the Sun: If the sun is out, spend time soaking up the rays, connecting with the earth, and embracing the energy of the day.

6. End the Evening with a Bonfire or Candle Ceremony

The Summer Solstice is deeply connected to fire, symbolizing transformation and purification. End your celebration with a bonfire or a candle ceremony to honor the sun’s power and its role in your life.

• Bonfire Ceremony: If you can, build a bonfire to burn symbolic items, such as old papers with your worries or things you’d like to release. This can be a moment of reflection, release, and renewal.
• Candle Lighting: If a bonfire isn’t an option, have each guest light a candle and pass it around in a circle, symbolizing the shared light of the summer sun.

7. Gift Your Guests with Litha-Themed Favors

Give your guests a small token of the solstice to take home, something that will remind them of the celebration and the energy of the sun. This could be anything from a small jar of honey to a handcrafted sun charm or a bundle of dried herbs.

• Gift Ideas:
  • Small potted plants or flowers
  • Handmade candles or soaps
  • Sun-shaped cookies or honey jars
  • Crystals that represent the sun (like citrine or sunstone)

Hosting a Litha party is a beautiful way to honor the peak of the sun’s power and embrace the abundance of the season. By incorporating nature, light, joy, and reflection into your gathering, you can create an event that leaves lasting memories for all who attend. Whether it’s through food, rituals, or playful activities, a Summer Solstice party is a celebration of life, warmth, and the magic of the sun.

The post How to Host a Litha Party appeared first on Soft Spirituality.

1. Sunshine Citrus Salad

A vibrant and refreshing salad to honor the sun’s fiery energy, the Sunshine Citrus Salad is a perfect addition to any Litha meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 oranges, peeled and sliced
• 1 grapefruit, peeled and sliced
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced
• Fresh mint leaves
• Honey (optional)

Directions:

1. Arrange the citrus slices in a large bowl or on a platter, alternating the colors to create a sun-inspired design.
2. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a burst of refreshing flavor.
3. Drizzle with a small amount of honey, if desired, to add sweetness.
4. Serve chilled to keep the refreshing summer vibe intact.

2. Midsummer Berry Tart

Fruits are abundant during Litha, and this tart celebrates the sweetness of summer berries.

Ingredients:

• 1 pre-baked tart shell
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
• Fresh mint for garnish

Directions:

1. In a bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
2. Spread the whipped cream over the pre-baked tart shell.
3. Arrange the mixed berries beautifully on top.
4. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and chill for an hour before serving.

3. Herbal Lemonade

Litha is all about fresh herbs, and this herbal lemonade combines the cooling, refreshing qualities of lemon with soothing herbs.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups water
• 1 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (or to taste)
• A few sprigs of fresh mint, lavender, or rosemary
• Ice

Directions:

1. In a saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil and steep the herbs for 5 minutes.
2. Strain out the herbs and combine the herbal water with the remaining 2 cups of cold water.
3. Stir in the lemon juice and honey, adjusting the sweetness to your preference.
4. Serve over ice with additional fresh herbs for garnish.

4. Grilled Summer Vegetables

As the sun reaches its peak, there’s nothing better than a plate of grilled vegetables to celebrate the vibrant energy of Litha.

Ingredients:

• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 yellow squash, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Directions:

1. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat.
2. Toss the vegetables in olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until charred and tender.
4. Serve garnished with fresh basil.

5. Lavender Honey Glazed Chicken

This recipe blends the soothing, fragrant qualities of lavender with the savory taste of chicken, perfect for a Litha feast.

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lavender flowers (or dried culinary lavender)
• 2 tablespoons honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. In a small saucepan, combine the lavender and honey over low heat. Stir until the honey melts and becomes fragrant.
4. Brush the chicken breasts with the lavender honey glaze and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until fully cooked.
5. Serve with a side of grilled vegetables or a leafy salad.

6. Midsummer Pesto Pasta

Pesto is a vibrant and herbaceous dish that celebrates the fresh flavors of summer, perfect for Litha gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves
• 1/4 cup pine nuts
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
• 1 lb pasta of your choice

Directions:

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain.
2. In a food processor, blend the basil, pine nuts, garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
3. Toss the pesto with the cooked pasta and serve with additional Parmesan cheese.

7. Golden Turmeric Rice

A dish of golden turmeric rice represents the sun’s radiant energy and is a warm, fragrant side dish perfect for a Litha meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon turmeric powder
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt to taste

Directions:

1. Rinse the rice and set it aside.
2. In a saucepan, heat the olive oil and add the turmeric powder, stirring for 1-2 minutes to release the fragrance.
3. Add the rice and vegetable broth, bringing it to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is tender.
5. Fluff with a fork and serve as a side dish.

8. Summer Solstice Sangria

A bright, fruity sangria perfect for celebrating the long summer nights, this recipe captures the spirit of Litha.

Ingredients:

• 1 bottle of white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc)
• 1/4 cup brandy
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1 orange, sliced
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 1/2 cup strawberries, sliced
• 1/2 cup peaches, sliced
• Fresh mint for garnish

Directions:

1. In a large pitcher, combine the wine, brandy, orange juice, and sliced fruits.
2. Let the sangria chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours to let the flavors meld.
3. Serve over ice with fresh mint leaves for garnish.

9. Litha Fruit Sorbet

This refreshing sorbet captures the sweetness of summer fruits and makes for a cool, light dessert to enjoy under the solstice sun.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups strawberries
• 1 cup raspberries
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
• 1/2 cup water

Directions:

1. Blend the strawberries and raspberries with honey and water until smooth.
2. Pour the mixture into a shallow container and freeze for at least 4 hours.
3. Once frozen, scrape with a fork to create a fluffy, sorbet-like texture.
4. Serve chilled for a sweet and refreshing treat.

Litha is a time for celebration and enjoying the warmth, light, and abundance of summer. These 9 recipes are perfect for bringing the sun’s radiant energy into your solstice rituals and meals. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet meal with loved ones or hosting a vibrant gathering, these dishes will help you honor the season and its nourishing gifts.

The post 9 Litha Recipes to Celebrate the Summer Solstice appeared first on Soft Spirituality.

Why Litha is Celebrated:

Litha celebrates the power of the sun, the abundance of nature, and the vitality of life during the summer months. It’s a time to honor growth, prosperity, and the interconnectedness of all living things.

Spiritual Themes:

1. Abundance: Litha is associated with the abundant energy of the sun, reflecting the flourishing life and harvest to come. You have worked so hard to be here, pause, and actually enjoy this moment in time. There is so much to be grateful for but we’re often so busy we forget to notice it.
2. Healing: Litha is a time for us to slow down and drench ourselves in the importance of coming home to a slower more present life. Give yourself grace and space during this season to really clear your schedule and enjoy taking time to refill your own cup.
3. Connection: Use this season to connect back with the things most important to you. Call in your community and celebrate the relationships you have with one another. Lean back into what brings you joy.

Litha Correspondences and Facts:

• Date: June 20 (or whatever day the Summer Solstice falls on for that year)
• Themes: Abundance, Vitality, Connection
• Time of Day: Midday
• Generational Cycle Correspondence: Mother
• Season Correspondence: Beginning of Summer
• Astrological Correspondence: Cancer Season – First half of Leo Season
• Moon Energy: Full Moon
• Tarot: The Sun and Strength
• Crystals: amber, carnelian, citrine, jade, peridot, tiger’s eye
• Colors: blue, gold, red, white, yellow, orange
• Keywords: abundance, celebration, peak energy, healing, inspiration, growth, motherhood, community

Litha on the Witch’s Calendar

• Generational/Universal Time – Mother: We are beginning the time of year where our labors have paid off and now we get to enjoy what we’ve grown. During seasons of the mother it’s about expansion and culmination. What have you birthed into the world during sprint that you can reap the benefits from in summer?
• Season – Summer: The beginning of summer is here and it’s time for celebration. You have worked so hard during the spring months, using the mounting energy, and now is the time for release. Go on vacation, take a day off, spend the day playing. Enjoy the warmth and joy around you.
• Astrological Seasons – Litha falls during the beginng of Cancer Season through the first half of Leo Season:
• Moon Phase – Full Moon: Peak energy is found during Litha season and now is the pause before the release. Take time to send gratitude to yourself for all that you’ve accomplished and created. There’s no use of creating things if we can’t enjoy them.
• Time of Day – Midday: Like lunchtime, it’s time to pause from your work and take a break. It’s the midday of the year and we’re being asked to step away, go out, and enjoy being present in the feeling of joy – not of work.

If you want to learn more about Sacred Cycles, check out this post: Cyclic Magic

Litha Rituals:

Here are my favorite rituals for Litha Season:

1. Spend all day outside enjoying the sun
2. Go on a picnic
3. Wear flowers in your hair
4. Eat watermelon and fruits
5. Plan parties with your friends
6. Have bonfires and enjoy the long days
7. Go on a trip
8. Slow down your days and clear your busy schedules
9. Visit bodies of water
10. Wake up with the birds
11. Open your windows
12. Make a berry pie
13. Start a gratitude practice
14. Enjoy your garden
15. Surround yourself with flowers
16. Redecorate your home
17. Start a new hobby just for fun
18. Have lazy days and do nothing
19. Ground on the grass
20. Make a fresh herb sachet
21. Forgive yourself for things you’ve held onto too long
22. Do a heart space meditation
23. Cook with fresh herbs
24. Do a witchy summer ritual

Litha Altar Ideas:

• Sun Symbols: The sun is shining at its peak and use this time to honor the warmth and abundance the sun brings us. Add elements of fire or red/orange candles to honor the sun
• Flowers and Fresh Herbs: Life is blooming all around us but it’s fleeting and now is the time to remember how precious life is. Decorate your altar with flowers to celebrate the season.
• Water: Add a chalice of water or a bowl of water to your altar as a symbol of healing and refreshing your energy.
• Other altar tools: athame, chalice, amber, berries, cauldron, offerings to the fae, honey, cake

Through rituals, crafts, and a deep connection with nature, ourselves, and each other, we can tap into the energy of this season, fostering personal healing and embracing the abundance in our lives. I hope you have a beautiful, present, slow, and nourishing Litha season.

Learn More:

• All about the Wheel of the Year and the Sabbats of this Sacred Cycle: Wheel of the Year.
• FREE 2024 Calendar (includes each Sabbat of the Wheel of the Year, the Astrological Seasons, and the Daily Moon: Free 2024 Witch’s Calendar here.

The post Litha: Welcome to Summer appeared first on Soft Spirituality.