Lughnasadh/Lammas – The First Harvest, August 1

Whether you call it Lughnasadh (Loo na sa) or Lammas, August 1st is the celebration of the first harvest of fall in the Northern Hemisphere. (It occurs on Feb. 1 in the Southern Hemisphere.) All summer, we’ve planted, watered and nurtured our crops, and now it is time to start reaping the rewards. It is a time to still enjoy the last of the sun’s vibrant energy while also preparing for the autumn to come.

During this Sabbat, we celebrate abundance and gratitude. It is represented by sunflowers, blackberries, grain and bread. Here are a few ways you can observe Lammas/Lughnasadh:

Try making bread. You could carve sigils/symbols into it or add various seeds to the top.

Have a huge feast. Enjoy various breads and fresh fruits and vegetables including blackberries, grapes, corn and apples.

Do spells on prosperity, wealth, success, health or gratitude.

Create a beautiful altar using the colors gold, green, yellow and orange. Add glowing candles to represent the sun. You could use decorative, dried corn or sunflowers. Leave it up all month to remind you often of the season and remind you about gratitude.

Here’s my altar:

How are you going to celebrate?