A Northwest Washington Asatru group, the Havamal Alliance, sponsored this Midsummer celebration and feast, known as a "thing," as it was in old Norse. There were about 25 people in attendance for the vigil, with a sunset ritual, a Sun-wheel burned around the fire and a dawn observance for all of us who were hale enough to stay up all night. In addition to the rites, there was a barbecue with enormous beefsteaks provided by the Alliance (those Vikings do like their feasting), and considerable drinking of mead and ale. Toasts, boasts and brags around the fire were festive, as was the enjoyable violin of Chris, who performed some traditional songs. Those of us who stayed up had a great time singing songs throughout the night with Prudence Priest, a big-name witch and priestess of Freya's Folk, in attendance from San Francisco. She knows more bawdy songs than any sailor I've ever met! She did remarkable things with Gwydion's "Spring Strathespray"!
The Norse-style rituals focus on celebration, as opposed to raising energy, and the style isn't my favorite; I tend to favor the magickal orientation of my own tradition. That given, I found the thing a lot of fun, just different from what I am used to. The weather was beautiful, and other than dinner beginning a bit late, the thing went well and a good time was had by all. I hope to attend the next thing the Alliance sponsors.
For more information on the Havamal Alliance, write to: Havamal Alliance, 12345 Lake City Way NE, #267, Seattle, WA, 98125.
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