Midsummer Bonfire.

In certain parts of Ireland there is a tradition of lighting a bonfire at sunset on St. John’s Eve June 23rd. This annual Midsummer celebration is to mark the birthday of John the Baptist.

In ancient times these fires were lit as part of a Celtic celebration in honour of the Celtic goddess Áine and to protect their crops and animals. People attending the bonfire participated in dancing and games around the fire and some men even tried to show their bravery by leaping through the flames.

There would be dancing and games in the open air and young men would try their bravery leaping through the flames.

Design by Jamelah.