St. John’s Eve – The Darker Side of Solstice

St. John’s Eve is thought of by many as the most important holiday in the New Orleans Voodoo calendar. Many think of Voodoo as a religion focused on negativity and darkness, in reality however many of the practices involve blessings of joy and universal connection.  St. John’s eve is a celebration of light and fire and takes place on June 23^rd around the days that are celebrated as the solstice. In actuality this is the longest day and therefore the shortest night.

In Ireland this is celebrated as Bonfire night, and in Mexico it is celebrated with fireworks and festivities. In Denmark and other parts of Scandanavia a straw witch is burned a top the fires to remove evil, this is a modern custom that began in the 20th century.

Most agree St. John’s eve was made the amazing New Orleans celebration that it is today by Voodoo Priestess Marie Laveau. This grand queen performed headwashing ceremonies on this day, either on the Bayou St. John, or Lake Ponchartrain (also called St. John’s lake.) Marie Laveau was widely known for her charity work, so this year consider honoring the fire in your heart and in your soul by donating or giving to those less fortunate.

Walk on Gilded Splinters into St. John’s Eve – Coco Robicheaux

Priestess Miriam and the Voodoo Spiritual Temple will be hosting their celebration on June 21st for more information see their website Voodoo Spiritual Temple on how to attend. I have been a member of the temple for several years, and I can honestly say it is an honor and a privilege to be present at their amazing St. John’s Eve ceremonies.  Although I am unable to attend in person this year, as always my heart and joyous hugs go out to them.

Walk on Gilded Splinters- Dr. John (this version includes me among the dancers)

This year Voodoo Universe is trying something different, instead of all gathering physically for a public ritual ( like we did last year) we will all be putting our energies together from our separate spaces this year on June 23rd. Join us at 9:30 pm EST in lighting a candle and saluting the night. Many of us will celebrate with altars and songs for Marie Laveau, the legendary Voodoo Queen that made this sacred night her own. Many will bring offerings to the river, symbolical of the eternal flow of life. If the spirit moves you please join us, in your own way, in celebrating the joys of the days and nights to come.