How to Celebrate the Summer Solstice
Although the recent heat waves may have had you fooled, June 21st marks the official beginning of the summer season. In the Northern Hemisphere, this day is also known as the summer solstice, the longest day and shortest night of the year. The solstice has been recognized by humans as early as the Stone Age, with celebrations held all over the world.
In most of Europe it is known as midsummer, celebrated with bonfires and feasts. In China, this solstice represents the feminine or ‘yin’ energy and festivals focus on celebrating the Earth. Many Native American tribes take part in rituals celebrating the sun, full of symbolic dances and colors. However it is celebrated, the purpose of this solstice is to pay tribute to the warm and vibrant energy of summer.
When planning your own celebration, keep in mind some of these ancient traditions that are easy to incorporate into modern times. The nature of the summer solstice is to celebrate the sun, and lighting a bonfire is one of the longest held traditions of this holiday. If you don’t have the space for a full-fledged fire, try a chiminea or candles. Creating a flower crown to wear during your festivities is a wonderful way to show tribute to the Earth, plus it’s a fun activity for kids (and kids at heart). Holding a feast for your friends and family is another long standing tradition of this day. Incorporate edible flowers and fresh herbs into a beautiful salad or make refreshing beverages with sparkling water and fruits. Choose to celebrate the natural world in a way that fits with your lifestyle, whether that means following these traditions or starting your own.
If you’d like to attend a solstice-centered celebration, try one of these regional events that you can drive to in 4 hours or less.
14th Annual Greensboro Summer Solstice Festival
- Held at Greensboro Arboretum and Lindley Park
- Saturday June 23rd, 2-10pm
- Find out more here http://www.greensborosummersolstice.org/
Virginia Summer Solstice Wine Festival
- Held at Lazy Days Winery in Amherst, VA
- Saturday June 23rd, 11-6pm
- Find out more here http://www.summersolsticefestival.com/#-home
Summer Solstice Celebration in Thomasville, NC
- Held at PACE Park Ampitheather in downtown Thomasville
- Friday June 22nd, 6pm
- Yoga and meditation centered event
- Find out more here https://visitthomasvillenc.com/events/2018/6/22/summer-solstice-celebration
