A Complete Guide To The Summer Solstice 2021

It’s officially going to be summer in a very short time, as the summer solstice is on its way. This will also mark the longest day of the year for people living in the northern hemisphere and the start of Cancer season.

The temperatures have finally begun to rise in most parts of the world, indicating summer’s arrival. This year, the first day of summer will fall on June 20, around the same time as Father’s Day. Also, the coming days will be special because of the summer solstice.

Every year, we experience two solstice events: summer and winter solstice. The summer solstice takes place in June and marks the longest day in the northern hemisphere. Similarly, the winter solstice occurs in December and is the shortest day of the year. Please keep reading to find out more about the summer solstice 2021 and how to celebrate it.

What Is The Summer Solstice?

As mentioned earlier, the solstice is an astronomical event that occurs twice every year. For people living in the U.S., UK, Canada, China, Russia, and parts of Asia, summer solstice marks the beginning of warmer weather and the longest day of the year.

On the contrary, it indicates the arrival of winter and marks the shortest day of the year for people residing in the southern hemisphere. The term “solstice” stems from the Latin words sol (sun) and sistere (standing still).

June Solstice is when the sun reaches its highest point in the sky and is directly over the Tropic of Cancer. Also known as an estival solstice or midsummer, this event takes place anywhere between June 20 and 22. And this year, the summer solstice will officially begin on Sunday, June 20 at 11:32 pm E.T.

Summer Solstice Traditions

Celestial and astronomical events have been celebrated since time immemorial. This is why the summer solstice celebrations differ worldwide, with many folklore tales gaining popularity over time.

Ever since ancient times, the sun’s standstill position has been a reason enough to rejoice. In ancient Egypt, the summer solstice and the rising of the Nile River happened simultaneously. Moreover, it was also the time when the Egyptians celebrated the new year.

According to the Irish tradition, people would hunt for precious stones on the solstice eve. Even in modern times, several Europeans continue to gather at Stonehenge to engage in Midsummer celebrations at the solstice.

How To Celebrate The Summer Solstice

The summer solstice also coincides with the Cancer season, the fourth zodiac sign. The crab symbolizes this water sign, and its ruling planet is the moon. Cancers are known for their intuitive, nurturing, and guarded nature.

With the sun at its highest point and the moon at its lowest, the solstice can result in mood swings. Hence, the best way to celebrate it is by drawing power from the sun’s energy. You can plan anything from a day out with your friends to soak up the sun.

Choose vibrant colors and summertime pastels to dress up. Dance the day and night away to recharge your energy, and let your friends join you in the fun. P.S., don’t forget those pretty flower crowns, and remember to breathe anew.