As the wheel of the year turns and the days begin to shorten, we approach the magical time of Lammas. This festival of the first harvest, largely observed on August 1st or 2nd, invites us to celebrate the union of the God and Goddess, embodied in the great fertility of the land. Lammas is a moment to honor the abundance of the earth and to recognize the fruits of our labor, both in the fields and within our hearts.
The names "Lammas" originates from the Old English word
"hlāfmæsse," meaning "loaf mass." This term reflects the ritual of bread baking that honors the wheat harvest. On Lammas, the first sheaves of grain are traditionally cut, and by nightfall, the first loaves of bread for the season would be baked. This ancient tradition signifies the fruition of all the hard work of the year, with the earth heavy with bounty. As without, so within: Lammas also praises the inner fertility of creativity, fruitfulness, and harvest within each individual.
While Lammas may not be one of the year's most boisterous celebrations, its existence dates back centuries. It marks the approximate halfway point between the summer solstice and the autumnal equinox. Some of the earliest Lammas rituals are recorded in early Anglo-Saxon texts, which outline instructions for prayers of protection over newly harvested corn to keep mice at bay. In medieval times, it was considered bad form to harvest grain before Lammas. If a farmer had to harvest before then, it meant that the previous year's yield had run out too soon, reflecting poorly on the farmer's ability to provide for their community.
Lammas is a time to honor and observe the fruits of labor - both literal and figurative. Our efforts in life yield more life, and every element in nature contributes to the whole of existence. Whether through gardening or other forms of labor, this moment invites reflection upon and celebration of personal successes. Here are some meaningful ways to celebrate Lammas and embrace the spirit of the first harvest:
Bake Bread | Use local grains to bake bread, honoring the ancient tradition and sharing the fruits of your labor with loved ones.
Gather Herbs | Collect and dry herbs for use throughout the year, connecting with the natural cycle of growth and harvest.
Preserve Fruits | Pick our buy local fruits to freeze or make preserves, extending the bounty of the season into the colder months.
Collect Seeds | Gather seeds to dry and plant next year, ensuring the continuity of growth and abundance.
Share Abundance | Honor others for their sacrifices by sharing your abundance. Whether through baking and gifting, hosting a small feast, or preparing something special for someone in need, sharing with an open heart brings warmth and community spirit.
By my hands a legacy
of their labors has been realized -
strong efficient and unwavering.
In them rests every reward.
From them lows all life's generosities.
May I build upon my strengths.
May I build courage in others
by my pure benevolence.
As we celebrate Lammas, take a moment to reflect on achievements, honor the sacrifices made by others, and embrace the abundance that surrounds us. May this first harvest be a time of joy, gratitude, and connection with the natural world and our communities.