What is the Festival of Lammas? AKA Lughnasadh: A Guide to the Celebration of Abundance and Harvest

As summer's golden glow ripens into rich amber fields, the ancient festival of Lughnasadh—or Lammas—marks the beginning of harvest season. Celebrated on August 1st, this sacred fire festival is a time of gratitude, gathering, and grounding, where we honour the Earth’s abundance and reflect on personal growth as we begin the slow spiral toward autumn.

But what is Lammas really about—and how can modern spiritual seekers embrace its power today?

What is the Festival of Lammas and Why is Lammas so Special?

Lammas, meaning “loaf-mass,” was traditionally the first harvest, where the first wheat sheaves were cut and baked into bread as an offering of thanks. Lughnasadh, its older Celtic name, was celebrated in honour of the god Lugh, a sun deity and warrior of many talents, symbolising the skills, strength, and perseverance needed to cultivate both crops and dreams.

It’s a time to pause and celebrate the fruits of your labour—whether that’s a successful business venture, a growing family, or personal healing. Just like the wheat fields, we too can stand tall and golden, proud of how far we’ve come.

The Spiritual and Metaphysical Meaning of Lammas

Lammas asks us to harvest not just crops, but insight. It’s about acknowledging your progress, honouring cycles, and offering gratitude—for the land, your body, your efforts, and even your struggles.

Spiritually, Lammas is a solar festival that holds warm, yang energy—a time of illumination and action—but also hints at the dimming days ahead. This blend of light and shadow encourages us to reflect:

• What has flourished in your life this summer?

• What is ready to be released to make room for new dreams?

Metaphysical themes include abundance, balance, gratitude, protection, and the cycle of birth-death-rebirth. It’s the perfect time to journal, set mid-year

intentions, or honour your ancestors and the spirits of the land.

🕯️Try burning our Lammas natural incense—infused with herbs, resins and intention—to welcome clarity and calm. Shop our incense here »

Planting and Practical Magic

According to the Farmer’s Almanac, Lammas is also a transitional time in the planting cycle. While major crops are being harvested, it’s also ideal for sowing late-autumn vegetables like kale, turnips, and radishes—mirroring the spiritual truth that even while reaping, we can sow again.

Use this as an invitation to:

• Plant new ideas for autumn.

• Tend to your “soil”—rest, nourish, and reflect.

• Create rituals of release for what no longer serves you.

We recommend using a Smoky Quartz or Obsidian crystal for grounding these new beginnings. Browse our protection stones »

Lammas and the Zodiac: Who Feels it the Most?

Falling during Leo season, Lammas is bold, proud, and heart-led. Ruled by the Sun, Leo brings themes of self-expression, courage, and warmth—all echoed in this harvest celebration.

If you're a fire sign (Leo, Aries, Sagittarius), this is your moment to shine. But even if you're not, everyone can use this energy to step into their power, release fear, and recognise their inner light.

Our Leo Season Crystal Pack is perfect for this time—complete with Carnelian, Yellow Jade, and Tiger’s Eye to energise and inspire. Grab yours here »

How to Celebrate Lammas

Whether you're new to the Wheel of the Year or a seasoned spiritual seeker, Lammas offers rich, grounding rituals that help you reconnect with the land—and yourself.

Here are a few soulful ways to celebrate:

• Bake bread and offer the first slice to the Earth.

• Create a gratitude altar with wheat, apples, sunflowers, and crystals.

• Write in your seasonal journal—reflecting on your “harvests” so far. See our journals »

• Host a small feast or fire gathering with friends or family.

• Meditate with Citrine or Garnet to welcome abundance and joy.

Need help building your altar or finding the right energy tools? Visit us in store or send us a message for guidance.

Common Concerns About Celebrating Pagan Festivals

Many of our customers on a spiritual path ask:

“Am I allowed to celebrate this?”

“Is it cultural appropriation?”

“What if I don’t know what I’m doing?”

Here’s the truth: Lammas belongs to the land—and to anyone seeking reconnection, respect, and rhythm with the Earth. Rooted in Celtic and British traditions, it is part of your heritage, especially if you live in the UK.

If you're still unsure how to start, consider beginning with something small and meaningful—like lighting a candle with intention or starting a harvest journal.

We’re always happy to help with beginner-friendly guidance and tools.

Empowerment Through the Wheel of the Year

Ultimately, Lammas is a mirror. It reflects the fruits of your spiritual journey, the seeds you’ve planted, and the harvests still to come. It reminds us that life moves in cycles—and that every season brings its own magic.

This Lammas, stand tall like the wheat. Celebrate your journey, however it looks. Ground yourself in gratitude. And remember: you are the harvest.

💛 Celebrate Lammas with us!

Visit www.moonstonecrystals.co.uk for altar tools, journals, crystals, and candles to support your celebration.

Connect with our community on Instagram and Facebook: @moonstoneromsey