The month of June brings the summer solstice. This years solstice celebration occurs on June 21, which also commemorates the first day of summer. All over the globe events occur during summer solstice. Celebrations include festivals, carnivals, marathons and other special regional events.
What is the Summer Solstice?
Originally, the word solstice is from the Latin words solstitium: sol (Sun) and stitium (still or stopped) In the Northern Hemisphere, the sun reaches its highest and most northern point in the sky. “At the summer solstice, the Sun travels the longest path through the sky, and that day therefore has the most daylight.” The North Pole is tilted about 23.4 degrees which causes the sun’s rays to shift northward. Therefore, the summer solstice is known to be the longest day of the year and the shortest night.
How to Celebrate
Traditionally, people celebrate the solstice as a renewal of life, fertility, and the potential for a good harvest. As well as, the full return of sunlight. Whereas, modern celebrations of the summer solstice include, cookouts, concerts, and bonfires. Many people enjoy the long hours of sunlight by enjoying outdoor activities, such as hikes, picnics, and camping. You can also browse social media to see if there are any events happening in your local city to celebrate.
In Fairbanks, there are many annual events celebrating the summer solstice. These include, The Midnight Sun Run, Midnight Sun Festival and Midnight Sun Baseball Game. The game is traditionally stopped during the inning closest to midnight, in order to sing the Alaska Flag Song. You can get more details about local summer solstice celebrations here.
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Sources: The Old Farmer’s Almanac, Britannica and Explore Fairbanks
Image Source: Tyratech
