It is one of the lesser sabbats and is also known as Summer Soltice. Litha celebrates the arrival of Summer. The sun is at the highest point in the sky it can be and now will start decending into the darkness of winter.
On the Wheel of the Year Litha rests directly across from Yule (Shortest day of the year). Rituals that are celebrated include abundance, fertility, and all the riches nature has provided.
This time of year is traditionally a time for handfasting/weddings. Litha fires werejumped over so that villages/clans/families were protected and prosperity was granted them. Courting couples were encouraged to jump over the embers while holding hands to ensure a long and happy marriage, financial propsperity, and many children. Cooled embers were placed around fields and orchards to protect crops and ensure a bountiful harvest.
The goddess is with child from the mating at Beltane and she is honored as is the Sun god and his approaching fatherhood. Faires abound and leaving offerings in the evening (such as cakes, bead, fruit, and herbs) are customary.
Tools: Sun, Birch & Fir branches, sunflowers, oak, seashells, lilies, feathers, sun dials, and summer fruits & flowers
Stones: Tiger's Eye, green stones (example: Jade, Emerald), and Diamond
Foods: Honey, vegetables, lemons, summer squash, carrots, and oranges
Herbs and Flowers: Anise, mugwort, lily, lavendar, chamomile, rose, holly trees, oak, pine, heather, St. John's Wort, thyme, wormwood, hemp, mistletoe, and fern
Oils: Saffron, frankincese, myrrh, cinnamon, lavender, sandlewood, pine, orange, mint, and rose
Colors: Blue, gold, yellow, red, and green
Spells for: Spirit/fae communication, love magic, protection, and divination
