jónsmessa (13. 553)

The celebration coinciding with the Feast of John the Baptist, this second night of Mid-Summer, according to Icelandic tradition when the midnight sun returns, barely dipping below the horizon and never setting, is one of the four miraculous eves when magic happens, the others occurring during Yuletide with Christmas, New Years and Twelfth Night. Wishing stones may be found as well as healing herbs and grasses mature and are at the height of their potency. The evening due heavy, rolling around in it naked guarantees a year’s inoculation from all ailments. Cows gain the capactiy for human speech, though their utterances can drive the hearer mad so it is best not to listen. Lore also states that sitting at a crossroads with all paths leading to a church invites elves, who will attempt to seduce one with food and gifts.