What is Summer Solstice

Each year, on June 21, the Summer Solstice takes place in the northern hemisphere. While the southern hemisphere experiences the winter solstice at the same time.

Similarly, When there is a Winter Solstice in the northern hemisphere, the southern hemisphere observes the summer solstice. The winter solstice occurs on December 22. 

Due to the Earth’s tilt at the solstices, one hemisphere receives more daylight than the other due to its greatest angle to the orbital plane. Over the Arctic Circle, there are approximately six months of continuous daylight.

Summer Solstice

The summer solstice is the year’s longest day and falls when the sun is at its highest elevation. This happens because the Earth’s tilt is aligned with the sun. 

The summer or June solstice usually falls on June 20 or 21 across the Northern Hemisphere and on December 20 or 21 in the Southern Hemisphere. A significant amount of sunlight is available when the sun’s rays are at their maximum intensity.

The north pole points towards the sun, while the south pole points away from it, resulting in the longest day in the northern hemisphere. 

History and Meaning

The word “solstice” stems from the Latin solstitium, which means “sun stands still.” This is because, at the solstice, the sun seems to remain still in the sky before reversing direction and beginning to travel south again. 

Summer Solstice traditions from around the world

The Summer Solstice has been celebrated throughout history by many different cultures. Ancient Egyptians planned and built the Great Pyramid of Giza to align with the sunrise on the day of the solstice. 

The Druids and Celtic people built Stonehenge as an astronomical calendar. They believed that the sun god, Lugh, was born on the Summer Solstice. 

In modern times, the event is still celebrated by many people worldwide. Stonehenge is still used as a site for Solstice celebrations, and people gather there to watch the sunrise on the year’s longest day. 

Observing the longest day of the year and welcoming the arrival of summer is fun. In America, the city of San Francisco hosts an annual Summer Solstice Parade and Celebration. The event features floats, live music, and costumes.

How to celebrate the June/Summer Solstice

Summer Solstice is the year’s longest day and marks the first day of summer. For many, it’s a time to celebrate the warm weather and longer days by spending time outside with family and friends. 

Many ways exist to celebrate the June Solstice, whether you’re looking for a traditional solstice celebration or something a little more unique. Listed below are some ideas to get you started:

• Have a picnic in your backyard or a nearby park.
• Go for a hike or walk in nature and appreciate the longer days.
• Spend time with friends and family, grilling out, playing games, and enjoying the warm weather.

The sun appears at its highest altitude during the solstice when viewed from outer space or outside tropical latitudes. However, it reaches its highest elevation on a different day for specific locations in the tropics.

FAQs