The astronomical summer solstice is celebrated on June 21st — and accordingly, various Northern hemisphere countries light bonfires at this time of year to observe midsummer.

In Portugal, fires are lit on the eve of the 24th of June, the night before St John’s Day. According to superstition, unmarried girls should throw an artichoke flower into these bonfires, and then take it home with them.

If by morning the flower has blossomed, then that shall mean their love will be corresponded. But if the artichoke bloom remains burnt and withered, then sadly that is a sign of an unfortunate relationship…

Image: Hall, Frederick (1886). In The Fields. Available HERE.

Recommended Source: Consiglieri Pedroso (1851–1910). Tradições Populares Portuguesas.