Summer Solstice: The Fest of Light and Longest Day
Here’s the ultimate guide about the summer solstice festivity
What is summer solstice? In a nutshell, summer solstice is the fest of light and longest day. In this blog, I’ll share the summer solstice ultimate guide.
The summer solstice, also known as the June solstice or midsummer, marks the official beginning of the summer season.
It is the day when the tilt of the earth is at its maximum, and the sun reaches its highest point in the sky in the Northern Hemisphere.
People across the globe have been observing the summer solstice for thousands of years, and it holds great significance in many cultures.
In ancient times, people believed that the summer solstice was a time of immense power and energy. Many indigenous cultures celebrated this day as a harbinger of a good harvest and a prosperous summer.
The word “solstice” itself comes from two Latin words, “sol” meaning “sun” and “sistere” meaning “to stand still.” This refers to the fact that the sun appears to stand still on the horizon during the moment of solstice.
After the summer solstice, the days start getting shorter until the winter solstice in December.
In some cultures, the summer solstice is a time for spiritual and religious observances. In pagan traditions, it is the time when the goddess is at the height of her power, and the sun god is reborn.
This day is celebrated as the festival of Litha, and many people gather around bonfires, feasting, and dancing, to celebrate the power of the sun and its life-giving energy.
In current times, the summer solstice is celebrated in different ways around the world. In parts of Northern Europe, like Sweden and Norway, people celebrate this day with music festivals, dances, and feasts.
The famous Stonehenge monument also attracts thousands of visitors every year, who gather to watch the sunrise on the longest day of the year.
Meanwhile, as the colder months come to an end and temperatures begin to rise, many people eagerly await the first day of summer and the start of the season in general.
There are several reasons why the summer months hold such appeal for people.
Firstly, the summer months provide an opportunity for people to spend more time outdoors. The warmer weather means that people can take part in outdoor activities such as picnics, hiking, and swimming. These activities can be enjoyed alone or with family and friends, making for memorable experiences.
Secondly, school is out for the summer, meaning that students of all ages have a break from their studies. This provides a chance for families to take vacations or for individuals to take some time off work to relax and enjoy the season.
Thirdly, the summer months tend to bring people together. Events such as music festivals, county fairs, and outdoor concerts attract large crowds of people who come together to enjoy the warm weather and festivities. This sense of community can be contagious and leave people feeling happy and connected.
Lastly, the summer months often bring with them a sense of carefree relaxation. Many people feel that there is a certain laid-back quality to summer that is not present in other seasons. The long days and warm weather invite people to slow down and enjoy life in the moment.
If you’re from Chicago where I reside, click here to read about Chicago’s longest day of summer in 2023 and here for some fun events and exciting activities the family can enjoy for the summer solstice 2023 and beyond.
Yes, there are several reasons why the first day of summer and the summer season, in general, are so eagerly anticipated. From spending more time with family to a sense of community and a general sense of relaxation, the summer provides a chance for people to enjoy the outdoors and the nature.
Overall, the summer solstice is a time to celebrate the light and energy that surrounds us. It is a reminder of the vastness and beauty of the universe, and how everything in it is connected.
So, this year, make sure to take some time to celebrate the summer solstice, and let its energy infuse you with joy, light, and positivity. Remember, you do not revere the sun, only enjoy its power as a creation of “God” (Yahweh)!
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