What is Summer Solstice?
Is the Summer Solstice the longest day or the longest day of daylight?
I've always thought it was the longest day of the year, but it is actually the longest day of daylight in the year. It doesn't come off the tongue easily!
The summer solstice occurs at the moment the earth's tilt toward the sun is at a maximum. It usually falls on June 20th, 21st or 22nd. This year's Summer Solstice will be on June 20, 2024. The solstice is celebrated twice a year for summer and winter or the longest and shortest daylight during the year.
Stonehenge & the Solstice
Summer Solstice is celebrated every year at Stonehenge. The sun rises behind Heel Stone on Stonehenge. This incredible sight marks the first day of summer. Many people around the world travel to Stonehenge to perform pagan or druid rituals. Stonehenge is believed to have been carefully crafted to align with the movements of the sun.
Summer Solstice Celebrations Around the World
- Dance the Sma Grodorna in Sweden.
- Watch a baseball game in Alaska under the midnight sun.
- Canigo Flame is carried to Sant Jaume Square in Barcelona.
- Watch a bonfire in Norway.
- Jump in the ocean in Puerto Rico to ward off negativity.
- Join the Jonsmessa in Iceland, where they play golf or hike bringing positivity.
Summer Solstice Celebrations For Free From Your Home!
- Travel without leaving your house with A to Z World Travel.
- Learn conversation skills for over 70 different languages using Mango Languages.
- Catch a recorded performance of theater, dance, opera or classical music using our Performing Arts Collection.
- Listen to a broad range of music from around the world on Smithsonian Global Sound.
- Investigate the cultures of worldwide groups including history, politics, customs, and more using Worldmark Encyclopedia of Cultures and Daily Life.
Safe travels!
Add a comment to: The Longest Day of the Year: Summer Solstice 2024