International Day of the Celebration of the Solstice

International Day of the Celebration of the Solstice

International Day of the Celebration of the Solstice aims to raise awareness about the significance of the solstice phenomenon in various cultures around the world. The solstice is a natural event involving the changing position of the Earth's axis in relation to the Sun, marking the year's longest and shortest days. For thousands of years, various civilizations have recognized, celebrated, and respected these moments, which are marked by specific astronomical, cultural, and religious events and practices. The International Day of the Celebration of the Solstice seeks to recognize these cultural and scientific practices, ultimately promoting a greater understanding of humanity's connection to the Earth, history, and each other.

The designation of an International Day of the Celebration of the Solstice was adopted by the United Nations in 2021, aiming to celebrate the diverse cultural expressions and numerous traditions associated with the solstices worldwide, including the United States. In America, the significance of the solstice can vary, but it often involves the acknowledgement of indigenous practices, such as the Native American Sun Dance, as well as scientific and celestial fascination associated with observatories and astronomy centers across the nation.

In the United States, the celebration of the International Day of the Solstice includes events at cultural institutions, observatories, and other relevant organizations highlighting the various aspects of the solstice phenomenon and its cultural implications. These events can range from educational sessions and workshops to traditional ceremonies and astronomical observations. The International Day of the Celebration of the Solstice is observed on June 21, shedding light on the importance of this natural event and the cultural traditions that have emerged along the way.

Facts about this day

• The word solstice comes from the Latin sol, meaning sun, and sistere, meaning to stand still.
• The summer solstice is the day with the longest period of sunlight.
• Inside the Arctic Circle (north of 66.5 degrees north) and the Antarctic Circle (south of 66.5 degrees south), there is a period in winter when the sun does not rise, and a period in summer when the sun does not set. These are known as Polar Night and Midnight Sun respectively.
• The summer solstice marks the shortest day of the year in the Southern hemisphere. It also marks the arrival of winter.

In the News and Trending in the US for International Day of the Celebration of the Solstice

Top things to do in the US for this observance

• Enjoy the summer season by planning a trip involving the outdoors. You could go hiking, fishing, or swimming.
• Visit Stonehenge in Wiltshire, England to witness the summer solstice like never before. There are live streams available online if traveling isn't an option.
• Check out some of the summer solstice fire festivals that are held in celebration.