About
Snorri Sturluson's Ynglinga saga says there were three great sacrifices each year: at the start of winter for a good year, at midwinter for crops, and at summer for victory, the sigrblót. Summer Finding is a modern heathen name for this spring feast. Iceland still keeps the first day of summer, Sumardagurinn fyrsti, as a public holiday with gifts and outdoor gatherings.
Customs
- Holding a feast to welcome summer
- Toasting success and courage in the season ahead
- Giving small summer gifts, as Icelanders still do
- Making oaths or setting goals for the summer
- Spending the day outdoors
Food
- Roast lamb or vegetables
- Fresh bread
- Pancakes
- Mead or apple juice
A simple ritual
- Go outside in the morning and greet the sun.
- Raise a cup to Odin, Tyr or Sol and ask for success in something that matters to you.
- Name one goal you mean to pursue this summer, and say it aloud.
- Pour a little of your drink onto the earth.
- Give a small gift to someone to mark the change of season.
Never leave candles or fires unattended, and keep them away from pets and children.