The summer solstice was a day of cultural significance for many ancient civilisations, who marked it with magnificent festivals and celebrations. The Vikings were known to use the summer solstice, or “midsummer”, as a time to convene and discuss legal matters and resolve disputes. They also visited wells believed to offer healing powers and built huge bonfires. The bonfire tradition has carried over to modern day, with Iceland being a popular destination for “Viking” style summer solstice celebrations.
In Britain, the Druids are thought to have practiced ritual celebrations during midsummer, with some believing these took place at Stonehenge. The historical accuracy of this has become unimportant to many Britons and tourists alike, who now gather at the ancient site to watch the sun rise. In the southern hemisphere, celebrations are less common, but extended daylight hours will give Australians a chance to get out and about as Christmas approaches.
Ways to Celebrate Summer Solstice
It is a time to of peak fertility not just of the earth but for the seeds you plant within yourself. Reflect upon those which you are sowing and those you intend to sow. On this day you might like to light a candle, say a prayer for yourself and reconnect with that deep inner knowing of who you are and what you would like to see in the world.
8 Ways to Honour Summer Solstice
While Waiting For Godot 