June 21’s Summer Solstice not only brings a change of season, but also serves as the longest day of the year. With that comes a super intense magical energy. Also known as Midsummer and the pagan holiday of Litha, the Summer Solstice is one of four solar holidays (the Spring Equinox, the Autumn Equinox, and the Winter Solstice are the others) that activate all the potent unseen magical energies on Earth, unlocking the mystical gates between worlds. During the Summer Solstice we celebrate life and light. We honor the Sun’s gifts to us, we dance, we listen to music, and we embrace all the merriments of life with friends. We spoke with 10 mystics to hear what they’re planning on doing to make the most out of this special day.

“The word 'solstice' is derived from the Latin words 'sol' for sun and 'sistere' which means 'standing still,' and it is used to describe the two times of year when the sun appears to be suspended, unmoving in the sky. Because of this, I generally like to observe the solstices by hitting the pause button and taking time to go outside, light candles, celebrate, and contemplate. This year for Summer Solstice, however, I'll be standing in one spot in a different way, as I'll be giving a talk at The Strand about the symbol of the witch. It will be indoors, but hopefully it will still be illuminating!"

“Solstice is a time of strength, ritual, fertility, and abundance. Living in Mallorca, I will be celebrating Summer Solstice in conjunction with the ‘night of Sant Joan’ and joining in the with the rituals of the island. The beaches will be illuminated with fire torches and the locals play music and dance with family and friends throughout the night, then everyone goes for a swim right at midnight as it is believed that this is preserving health and wellness.”

—Caitlin McGarry, Tarot reader

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