Summer Solstice

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The Summer Solstice is one of the four quadrature points of the earths orbit, the others being vernal equinox, autumnal equinox, and the winter solstice. During the summer solstice the daylight hours are at the greatest length for the entire year, after which they begin to shorten until they reach the winter solstice. The summer solstice occurs on or about June 22nd, at which time the sun position is directly in alignment with the heelstone of Stonehenge.

There are many pagan rituals associated with the summer solstice, many of which celebrate light and fire. It is also a time to ask for blessings on field's crops, and animals so there will enough for the upcoming harvest or slaughter to last throughout the winter months. The summer solstice is also a time of celebrating great love. The tradition of a June wedding comes from the pagan ritual of handfastings. Two lovers who had committed to one another were joined at this time. Couples were betrothed to one another and celebrations were held under the midsummer moon also known as the 'honey moon'. The name comes from the traditional mead drink made from fermented honey.

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