Myths and Demons of the Summer Solstice

The days are still longer than the nights—but this pleasant rhythm is now beginning to shift. When exactly this change occurs is a matter of debate. In recent decades, the summer solstice has been celebrated as an astronomical event on June 21. However, according to European traditions dating back 500 years, the evening before June 24—known as St. John’s Night—has long been recognized as the “great solstice” or “Midsummer Day.” The customs associated with these two dates are increasingly blending together.

The summer solstice is regarded as a mystical time. According to folk belief, special forces are at work in nature on St. John’s Night, endowing herbs and medicinal plants with magical powers. A wreath made of healing herbs, hung over doors and windows, was said to protect against demons roaming the night. St. John’s Day also marks the beginning of the harvest season—St. John’s Wort begins to bloom, redcurrants ripen, and fireflies take to the skies, glowing in the midsummer darkness.