Alaska is known as the land of the Midnight Sun for that exact reason. During Summer Solstice, many communities across the state celebrate the extended sunlight throughout the month of June. It’s important to stay safe, hydrated, and protected from the sun when celebrating and enjoying the long daylight hours this weekend.
What Is Summer Solstice?
Summer Solstice in the Northern Hemisphere occurs each year, generally over the third weekend in June. It marks the longest day of the year, or the day with the most hours of sunlight. Across the state of Alaska, major cities will see between 18.5 – 22.5 hours of daylight over the Summer Solstice weekend. However, in Barrow Alaska, 24 hours of sunlight lasts over a month, extending from the middle of May through the end of July.
Celebrating The Longest Day Of The Year
Many people worldwide celebrate Summer Solstice in various ways. In Alaska, most of us like to enjoy a long weekend camping or going to community events. It’s important to remember sunscreen and bug dope as the mosquitoes will be as relentless as the sun throughout the weekend.
Lather up in sunscreen, and remember to continue to apply all day, even at night, if you plan to be outside later in the day. Also remember to reapply sunscreen after washing your hands.
Avoid dehydration and heat exhaustion by drinking water throughout the day and not skipping any meals. Many people each year require first aid assistance during Summer Solstice celebrations from experiencing dehydration, extreme fatigue, and even heat stroke. Take break from being in direct sunlight to allow your body to cool down.
Summer Solstice Events
In Fairbanks, since 1906, the Midnight Sun Festival and Baseball Game have been held annually over the Summer Solstice weekend. The Midnight Sun Game traditionally begins at 10:00p and ends in the early hours of the following day. Due to COVID-19, both events ended up canceled this year. Many long-time Fairbanks residents are still trying to find ways to celebrate this weekend despite social distancing limitations. On Saturday, June 20th the interior should see approximately 22 constant hours of sunlight.
Anchorage has a local tradition for hikers to ascend the Flat Top trail and watch the seemingly endless sunset. If wildfires and rainstorms avoid the area, you could score a view of the Anchorage skyline and Denali in a sublime color wash. Expect daylight to last nearly 20 hours in the Anchorage area. There are many other celebratory events, including the Mayor’s Marathon and the Midnight Sun Baseball Game. Anchorage has also cancelled its annual Midnight Sun Festival this year.
Festivals and baseball games are also held annually in Juneau, but have been cancelled or postponed. Juneau daylight is expected to last about 18 hours over Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. In other areas of Alaska, annual music and brewing festivals, concerts, and community events may still be held on a smaller scale. Stay safe this weekend and enjoy the Midnight Sun!
The Merdes Law Firm has been helping injured Alaskans for more than 30 years. It’s who we are. And while we hope you never need us … We’re here if you do. ~ Ward Merdes
Source: “The Best Festivals To Celebrate Summer Solstice In Alaska” by alaska.org
