Do you spend all year wishing for balmy evenings, long daylight hours, and short nights? Well, if you do, then it’s likely that the summer solstice may just be one of your new favorite days on the calendar! But what exactly is the summer solstice? And how do you celebrate it? Well, we’re here to explain just that! In today’s post, we’re going to dive into the science, the history, and the rituals associated with the magnificent event that is the summer solstice.
The Science of the Summer Solstice
The summer solstice, or the longest day and shortest night of the year, occurs around the end of June. It doesn’t fall on the same date every year, though, because the astronomical year is 365.25 days long! The reason that this phenomenon occurs is due to the North Pole being at its maximum tilt of 23.5 degrees towards the sun during the Earth’s orbital period, which takes one year. In the Northern Hemisphere, the summer solstice occurs in late June, and for many marks the true commencement of summer. During the summer solstice, the sun will reach its highest and northernmost points in the sky. Although, if you’re located in the Southern Hemisphere, this time of year actually marks the beginning of winter, with the sun being at its lowest point in the sky.
The History of the Summer Solstice
Historically, it’s believed that Neolithic humans may have started to associate the summer solstice with the best time of year to plant their crops, and thus used it as a form of calendar. It’s also thought that people in Ancient Egypt used the summer solstice as a way to mark the annual rising of the river Nile in order to predict flooding. Since then, different cultures around the world have proceeded to mark the summer solstice in a number of other interesting ways!
Global Summer Solstice Traditions
In England, many people visit the Stonehenge monument that dates back to 2500 BC. This ancient stone structure precisely frames the sunrise on the longest day of the year! Those in Sweden often gather to dance around a maypole decorated with flowers to celebrate the solstice while dressed in traditional Swedish clothing and floral wreaths.
In Fairbanks, Alaska during the summer solstice, you can catch the thrilling Midnight Sun Baseball Game, a 108-year old tradition that sees players beginning the game at 10pm and continuing into the night! Due to the long daylight hours Alaska experiences around this time of year, no artificial light sources are used, as the glow of the midnight sun is perfectly adequate. When the clock hits midnight on the day of the summer solstice in Puerto Rico, it’s tradition to fall backwards into the ocean for good luck! In Barcelona, bonfires are lit to celebrate the solstice, and people indulge in a massive outdoor feast paired with a colorful firework display.
However, you don’t need to be living in one of the above locations to enjoy celebrating the summer solstice! In fact, you can celebrate it in your own backyard and have just as much fun. That’s why we’ve compiled our favorite ideas for marking this fun occasion below!
Ways To Observe The Summer Solstice
Watch the Sunrise or the Sunset
Watching the sunrise or the sunset is always a magical experience. Seeing a myriad of stunning colors in the sky can serve as a reminder of the beauty of the world, making us feel totally content and tranquil. You can also actually watch a livestream video of the sunrise at Stonehenge on the summer solstice, courtesy of The English Heritage Society!
Take an Early Morning Walk in The Morning Dew
Predominantly seen as a Swedish tradition, walking barefoot in early morning dew is believed to boost the immune system and improve health. It’s also a great way to feel more grounded, as you’re literally going to be touching the earth!
Take a Dip in the Sea or River
If you live near a swimming-safe river or the sea, head on over for a refreshing dip to celebrate the summer solstice! Swimming is an easy way to de-stress and cool down, and it also promotes cardiovascular health.
Host a Summer-Themed Cocktail Party
Certain delicious cocktails, like the tequila sunrise, the daiquiri, and the piña colada just scream ‘Summer!’ Get your mixologist on, and round up your nearest and dearest for an awesome evening of sipping and catching up.
Go Sunbathing
Why not lay out on your towel or lounge chair and bask in the sun’s glorious rays? This low-key way to celebrate the solstice is the epitome of pure relaxation. Make sure you use good-quality SPF!
Make an Ice Cream Bar
Nothing says summer quite like some delicious ice cream. Set up an ice cream sundae bar complete with a range of yummy toppings, and get ready to make the sweetest creations! This scrumptious idea will be definitely appreciated by your little ones.
Go Camping
Head to the great outdoors this summer solstice, and surround yourself with the peaceful bliss of nature! Camping is often a much-loved activity for those who crave a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Make Sun-Themed Arts and Crafts with Your Kids
Embrace the power and beauty of the sun that heats our earth by making some sun-themed art! Your little ones will be proud to display their work for the rest of the summer.
Host a Backyard BBQ Feast
In many cultures, feasting with loved ones is a large part of marking the summer solstice. So why not host the biggest and best BBQ feast they’ve ever seen?
Make Flower Crowns
Flower crowns are an ever-popular accessory associated with summer, and they’re relatively easy to make. Make your own, or invite your friends over to craft them together in a workshop! Don’t forget to take some pictures modeling your lovely crowns after they’re finished.
Plant Something/Tend to Your Garden
Summer is the season that sees some of the most vibrant blooms! Channel your green thumb this summer solstice and plant something new in your garden. Or, if you’ve already got an established backyard, use the day to lovingly tend to it.
Do Sun Salutations
The sun salutation is one of the most popular yoga sequences, and for good reason! This set of poses can energize us, improve our circulation, and promote better digestion. So, what are you waiting for? Roll out your mat and indulge in some much-needed yoga time.
Make Some Summer Resolutions
Who says it needs to be New Year’s Day for you to make resolutions? Not us! Summer can be another great time to set goals for yourself. Writing down your resolutions, hopes, and dreams for the remainder of the year is an empowering way to celebrate the summer solstice.
Make S’mores
Ah the humble s’more. A mouth-watering fireside treat perfect for the season in question! We love the idea of sitting around an outdoor fire pit and roasting marshmallows for the summer solstice.
Dance Around a DIY Maypole
Possibly one of the most crafty ideas on the list, making a DIY maypole complete with floral decorations and ribbon is a truly authentic way to observe this annual event!
Now that you’ve reached the end of this article, we’d like to think that your brain is now lighting up with ideas for celebrating the summer solstice! Whether you’re going to mark the occasion with your friends, your family, or your little ones, we hope that you have a fabulous time ringing in the astronomical start of summer. If you’ve got any more great ideas for observing this time of year, or partake in any other traditions, please share them with us in the comments below!
Ella is a content specialist from Cork, Ireland. Her passions include spending time with her two energetic dogs, fashion, photography, and trying new vegan food!
