01Aug 2024 by catbird No Comments
What is First Harvest?

What is First Harvest?

First Harvest, Folklore, Learning
First Harvest is a celebration halfway between the Summer Solstice (the official start of summer) and the Autumn Equinox (the official start of fall). It is observed on August 1st, although the technical astronomical midpoint varies slightly. It is what is known as a “cross quarter” day on the Wheel of the Year. These days are seasonal midpoints in between the “quarters” or solstices/ equinoxes. It is known as Lammas, Lughnasadh, Green Corn Festival, First Fruits, and First Harvest in various traditions. In many places around the world, it is the start of the harvest season and the peak of summer bounty. Corn, tomatoes, and wheat are all ripening. While the weather still feels hot and summery, the start of the harvest means fall is on its way. History &…
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24Jul 2023 by catbird 1 Comment
Corn Husk Candles

Corn Husk Candles

Craft Project, First Harvest, Green Corn Moon, Nature Art, Summer
The "corn' that most Western Europeans refer to around First Harvest (also called Lammas or Lughnasadh) is actually just old fashioned slang for "grain" and most often refers wheat. As a North American on the other hand, corn as in maize, is having its moment this time of year. Some Southeastern American Indian tribes celebrate a Green Corn Festival in early August to celebrate the corn harvest. “Green corn” is of course not corn that is the color green (although there is green colored corn), but simply sweet corn—that is, corn that is eaten fresh as opposed to mature corn that is dried and ground up. It’s the same reason we call green beans green– it’s not because they are the color green, but because they are eaten in an…
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