Hello there,
I thought I’d share a little about my visit to the Hill of Tara in County Meath, where I went in 2021 to experience the Celtic Summer Solstice. The summer solstice marks the longest day of the year, when the earth’s tilt brings us the greatest stretch of daylight. Across the world, people have celebrated this moment in different ways, and here in Ireland, the Celts marked it with customs connected to light, harvest, protection, and community.
At the Hill of Tara, one of Ireland’s most important ancient sites, people gathered to honour the old traditions. For the Celts, this was a powerful time of year, linked with banishing harmful spirits, welcoming abundance, and preparing for a fruitful harvest. It was also a time for feasting, music, dancing, and gathering around bonfires. The Celts certainly knew how to celebrate.
I brought myself and my camera up to Tara on the night of the solstice, and the atmosphere was something special. There was music playing, poetry being read, and people of all ages gathered together under the evening sky. What struck me most was seeing children playing Gaelic games as the sun went down over this ancient Neolithic landscape. It felt like old Ireland and modern Ireland meeting in one beautiful moment.
The Hill of Tara has always been a place of gathering, culture, and deep meaning, and that evening captured it perfectly. Have a look at my video of the Celtic Summer Solstice below, and I hope you enjoy the experience.
Slán for now,
Aidan