Fire is one of the four great elements, along with water, air, and earth. It keeps us warm on chilly days, cooks our food, and helps us make many useful things. On starry nights, it crackles and glows as people gather around campfires to share stories, songs, and laughter.

Fire is a friend—but it’s also powerful. If we’re not careful, it can grow wild and fierce, leaving nothing but ashes behind.

In summertime, when people light Saint John’s fires to celebrate the sun and the longest days of the year, we invite you to explore the wonders of fire with us. Together, we’ll journey through stories from around the world that tell how fire first came to humans.

The Story of the First Fire
An Aboriginal Dreamtime tale from Australia

Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl
A fiery love story from the mountains of Mexico

The Gift of Fire
A folktale from the misty Island of Islay in Scotland

 

We will guide you through many fun and fiery activities. By the time you finish reading this magazine, you’ll know how to make your own drawing charcoal and even create a bubbling volcano! You’ll paint a picture of fire by blowing bright colours through a straw, draw glowing flames with wax crayons, or craft a fire shape using colourful threads and nails.

With a gentle hand, a curious heart, and a little bit of patience, fire will reveal to you its power, its beauty, and its magic.