laikotarpiams

Laikotarpiams, also known as *Laikotarpius*, refers to a traditional Lithuanian folk custom and ritual associated with the celebration of the summer solstice, known locally as *Rasos* or *Rasos diena*. This festival marks the longest day of the year and has historical roots in pagan Baltic traditions, later blending with Christian influences.

The name *laikotarpiams* translates roughly to "seasonal time" or "period of time," reflecting its connection to the changing seasons and agricultural cycles. During this time, communities would gather to honor the sun’s strength and ensure prosperity for the coming months. Rituals often included bonfires, symbolic offerings, and communal feasts, symbolizing the transition between the old and new seasons.

In modern Lithuania, *laikotarpiams* is sometimes observed through cultural events that revive old customs, such as dancing around bonfires, singing folk songs, and preparing special dishes like *rasos* (a type of bread or porridge). The festival also holds significance in Lithuanian folklore, where it is sometimes linked to mythical figures like the *Rasa* (a sun goddess) or protective spirits believed to guard the land during this time.

While no longer a widely practiced religious observance, *laikotarpiams* remains an important part of Lithuania’s cultural heritage, celebrated as a reminder of the country’s historical connection to nature and seasonal traditions. Today, it is often observed alongside other summer festivals, blending ancient practices with contemporary celebrations.