Celebrating Lammas

Lammas The Ancient Harvest Festival

As the sun reaches its zenith and the golden fields of grain sway in the summer breeze, the pagan sabbat of Lammas emerges to celebrate the first fruits of the harvest. Known as “Lughnasadh” in Celtic traditions, Lammas marks a time of gratitude, abundance, and a profound connection to the cycles of nature. For Wiccans and other modern pagans, Lammas holds a special place as a celebration of the Earth’s bountiful gifts and a reminder of the eternal dance between life, death, and rebirth.

Origins and Historical Significance

The roots of Lammas trace back to the agricultural societies of ancient Celtic and Germanic peoples. Derived from the Old English word “hlafmaesse,” meaning “loaf-mass,” Lammas was a crucial moment in the yearly agricultural cycle. It marked the beginning of the grain harvest, specifically that of wheat, barley, and oats. Communities would gather to give thanks for the successful growth of the crops, offering the first harvested grains to deities or spirits as an acknowledgment of their blessings.

In Celtic mythology, Lammas was associated with the god Lugh, a deity known for his skills in craftsmanship and harvest. The festival of Lughnasadh was named in his honor and was celebrated with feasting, games, and competitions that showcased various skills and talents.

Associations and Celebrations

As Wicca draws inspiration from various pagan traditions, Lammas holds deep significance as one of the eight Sabbats in the Wheel of the Year. Here are some Wiccan associations and ways to celebrate Lammas:

Colors:

  1. Gold: Symbolizing the ripening grains and the power of the sun, gold is a prominent color during Lammas celebrations.
  2. Green: Representing the abundance of nature, green connects Wiccans to the flourishing crops and the life-giving energy of the Earth.

Foods:

  1. Bread: In keeping with the “loaf-mass” origins, freshly baked bread or grain-based foods are central to Lammas celebrations, embodying the essence of the harvest.
  2. Berries and Fruits: Fresh fruits and berries, especially those in season, are commonly enjoyed during Lammas feasts to honor the fruitfulness of the Earth.

Herbs and Incense:

  1. Mint: Associated with Lammas for its refreshing and uplifting properties, mint is often used in teas and incense to invoke prosperity and abundance.
  2. Rosemary: Symbolizing remembrance, rosemary is used in rituals to honor the cycles of life and the memories of loved ones.

Symbols:

  1. Corn Dollies: Woven from dried stalks of wheat or corn, corn dollies are crafted to represent the spirit of the grain and the fertility of the land.
  2. Sun Wheels: Sun-shaped symbols are created as representations of the solar deity and the power of the sun’s rays during the height of summer.

Ritual and Spellwork:

  1. Harvest Offerings: Wiccans often create altars adorned with freshly harvested fruits, vegetables, and bread to offer thanks and energy to the deities and spirits that watch over the land.
  2. Gratitude Rituals: Lammas is a time for expressing gratitude for the abundance in our lives and for the blessings that have come to fruition since the start of the year.
  3. Feasting and Communal Gatherings: Many Wiccans celebrate Lammas with friends and coven members, sharing a meal that highlights the season’s produce and engaging in games and festivities reminiscent of ancient harvest celebrations.

Making My Corn Dolly

Would you like to create a Corn Dolly?

In this Step by Step walk through of me creating my first Corn Dolly, you will learn how to create your own.  Be ready for your next Lammas or Lughnasadh celebration!