Sonia M. Rompoti, MSc, bsc

As the sun reaches its zenith and the days stretch to their longest, we find ourselves on the cusp of a spectacular celestial event.

In 2024, the Strawberry Full Moon coincides with Litha, the summer solstice, creating a unique moment that beckons us to pause, celebrate, and connect with the rhythms of nature.

Let’s dive into the rich history, significance, and ways to celebrate these intertwined events.

What is the Strawberry Full Moon?

The Strawberry Full Moon, traditionally named by Native American tribes, marks the ripening of strawberries ready for harvest. This full moon, typically occurring in June, is a beacon for the start of the summer fruit season. In 2024, the Strawberry Full Moon falls on June 21st, coinciding with Litha, the summer solstice.

The Significance of the Strawberry Full Moon

The Strawberry Full Moon is more than just a beautiful sight in the night sky. It holds agricultural and cultural significance:

• Agricultural Importance: For centuries, farmers have used the phases of the moon to guide their planting and harvesting schedules. The Strawberry Full Moon signals the time to gather ripe strawberries, ensuring they are harvested at their peak.
• Cultural Celebrations: Various cultures celebrate the full moon with festivals and rituals. For example, in Europe, it’s known as the Rose Moon, reflecting the blooming of roses in early summer.

What is Litha?

Litha, also known as Midsummer or the summer solstice, is celebrated when the sun reaches its highest point in the sky, marking the longest day and shortest night of the year. It is a time of great joy and reverence for many cultures around the world, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness and the peak of the sun’s power.

The Significance of Litha

Litha is a celebration of light, growth, and abundance. Its significance is rooted in ancient traditions and beliefs:

• Pagan Traditions: Litha is one of the eight Sabbats in the Wheel of the Year in pagan traditions. It is a time to honor the sun god and celebrate the Earth’s fertility.
• Ancient Rituals: Historically, people celebrated with bonfires, dancing, and feasts. The fire symbolizes the sun, and jumping over the flames was believed to bring good luck and protection.

Celebrating the Strawberry Full Moon and Litha in 2024

With the rare alignment of the Strawberry Full Moon and Litha in 2024, the celebration takes on an even more magical and profound meaning. Here are some ways to celebrate and connect with this powerful time:

1. Moonlit Gathering: Host a moonlit gathering with friends and family. Enjoy a feast featuring strawberries and other seasonal fruits. Share stories and folklore about the moon and the solstice.
2. Bonfire Ritual: Light a bonfire to honor the sun. As the flames dance, reflect on your goals and aspirations. Write them down and toss them into the fire, symbolizing your commitment to achieving them.
3. Nature Walk: Take a walk in nature, paying attention to the heightened energy and vibrancy of the natural world. Collect herbs, flowers, or stones that resonate with you to create a personal altar.
4. Meditation and Reflection: Use this time for introspection and meditation. Reflect on the first half of the year and set intentions for the remaining months. The full moon’s energy amplifies your thoughts and desires, making it a powerful time for manifestation.
5. Creative Expression: Engage in creative activities like painting, writing, or crafting. Let the energy of the full moon and solstice inspire your creations. Share them with others to spread the joy and inspiration.

Historical Context and Global Celebrations

Understanding the historical context of these events enriches our appreciation. Here’s a brief look at how different cultures have celebrated the summer solstice:

• Stonehenge, England: One of the most famous solstice celebrations takes place at Stonehenge, where thousands gather to witness the sunrise over the ancient stones. This tradition dates back thousands of years and continues to draw modern-day pilgrims.
• St. John’s Day, Europe: In many European countries, the summer solstice is celebrated as St. John’s Day with bonfires, singing, and dancing. It’s a time for community gatherings and enjoying the warmth of the season.
• Inti Raymi, Peru: The Inca festival of Inti Raymi, or Festival of the Sun, is celebrated in Cusco, Peru. This ancient festival honors the sun god Inti and includes elaborate rituals, music, and dance.

The Spiritual Dimension

The spiritual dimension of the Strawberry Full Moon and Litha cannot be overlooked. These events invite us to deepen our connection with the cosmos and our inner selves:

• Alignment and Balance: The summer solstice is a time to seek balance in our lives. Just as the Earth is balanced between light and dark, we can strive to find harmony between our physical, emotional, and spiritual selves.
• Gratitude and Abundance: Express gratitude for the abundance in your life. The fullness of the moon and the peak of the sun’s power remind us of the bountiful gifts of nature and the universe.
• Renewal and Transformation: Both the full moon and solstice are times of renewal. Let go of what no longer serves you and embrace transformation. This is a powerful time for personal growth and change.

final thoughts

As we prepare to celebrate the Strawberry Full Moon and Litha, let’s make a conscious effort to connect with the natural world and each other. Here are some actionable steps:

1. Plan a Celebration: Organize a small gathering to celebrate these celestial events. Share the knowledge and significance with your community.
2. Engage with Nature: Spend more time outdoors. Plant a garden, go for hikes, or simply enjoy the beauty of a sunset.
3. Practice Mindfulness: Incorporate mindfulness practices into your daily routine. Meditate under the full moon, practice yoga, or keep a gratitude journal.
4. Educate and Share: Share this knowledge with others. Educate your children, friends, and family about the importance of these events and how they can celebrate meaningfully.

The convergence of the Strawberry Full Moon and Litha in 2024 offers a unique opportunity to celebrate the wonders of our natural world and our place within it. By honoring these traditions, we not only keep ancient customs alive but also find deeper meaning and joy in our own lives. So, gather your loved ones, light a bonfire, and let the magic of the moon and the sun fill your heart with warmth and light.

Let’s embrace this celestial moment and celebrate the beauty and abundance of life. Happy Strawberry Full Moon and Litha!

Share Your Celebrations!

We’d love to see how you celebrate the Strawberry Full Moon and Litha. Share your photos and stories on social media with the hashtag #StrawberryLitha2024. Let’s create a tapestry of joy and celebration that spans the globe!