Commonly referred to by either the Irish Lughnasadh or Christian Lammas, the beginning of August, roughly halfway between the summer solstice and fall equinox, marks the celebration of the commencement of harvest. In Scots Gaelic it known as Lùnastal and is similar to the Welsh harvest festival Gŵyl Awst. The festival shows gratitude for the fruits of the land as well as offerings to prevent spoilage. Bread is baked from the first wheat or corn of the season. There was a tradition of breaking the loaf into four pieces and placing them in the corners of the barn. The word Lammas actually derives from the Old English name hlafmaesse meaning literally loaf-mass.
It is at this time that the sun noticeably begins to drop lower toward the horizon as she begins her descent into the Underworld. Sweet offerings were also offered. Echoing the fertility rites of spring, people would ride poles, sometimes split at one end or topped with a horse head, through the fields to ward off decay and promote the final growth of the crops. Throughout the first weeks of August, decorations were placed at holy wells and springs in honor of the goddess.
The harvest is a time of reaping and death imagery abounds. Far back in history the festival may have involved literal sacrifice, either animal or human. Today, we observe the sacrifice of the fruits of the harvest. In the folk song about John Barleycorn, he is the symbolic emblem of the agricultural cycle. His death, sacrifice, is necessary for the essential materials needed to brew beer and distill spirits.
Suggest Observance for the Feast of First Fruits
Obtain an ear of corn with its husk still on. If possible, a sheaf of early grain is an ideal element as well. Husk the corn and set aside the husk to dry. Place the corn at the center of your altar or working area. Around it place the grain, if available, and apples—preferably ones grown locally. Fill a glass with ale, mead, or apple juice with which to offer the toast. Light yellow (or white) candles.
Meditate and ground yourself.
Oh Old Ones of days long past
I do ask you presence here.
For this time that is not a time
In this place between places
On a day that is not a day.
I am here.
Offer an apple to the goddess.
I am here to enjoy
the first fruits of the harvest.
Raise the glass in a toast.
I honor the One Ones.
I honor the Mighty Dead.
I honor my brothers.
Drink.
So mote it be!
Save the corn husk and set it aside to dry. Once it is dry, make it into a corn dolly. Save for use at the Harvest Home festival at the autumnal equinox.