If the unseasonably warm temperatures weren’t indicative enough, the calendar has officially declared what the rest of us already knew: it’s summer! The summer solstice marks the onset of summer and falls on the longest day of the year. In 2016, it’s taking place on Monday, the 20th of June.

So, why do we celebrate this sunny holiday? Over the centuries, the June solstice has inspired countless festivals, midsummer celebrations and religious holidays.  It has links to many ancient cultural practices as different cultures have celebrated it being symbolic of renewal, fertility and harvest. In today’s day of age, there are many ways you can observe the summer solstice! We have compiled our sunny suggestions below:

  • Sky Observation

In 2016, a full Moon, also commonly known as Strawberry Moon, will coincide with the June Solstice. Unbelievably, the two events have not occurred on the same day since 1967 and will not coincide again until 2062. If you would like to witness the actual moment of the summer solstice in the sky, check with your local municipality to see what is being organized near you. Starting at 8pm EDT, Slooh, whose tagline is “space for everyone,” will live stream views of the full moon from telescopes on the Canary Islands.

  • Travel 

Consider spending summer solstice away from home, at one of the key destinations where the summer solstice has been celebrated for centuries. Sedona, Arizona, as one example, hosts a celebratory event on an annual basis. On Saturday, June 25, “The Sedona Summer Solstice Festival” will take place from 10 am to 5 pm and will feature exhibitors, musicians, healers, psychics, workshop facilitators and more.

  • Crafting & Gardening

You certainly don’t need to attend an organized event to celebrate the summer solstice. In fact, it may be even more fun to host your own celebration! Consider inviting a few close friends to your home for crafting or gardening. The wonderful thing about celebrating the summer season is that you can incorporate natural elements, cheerful colors, and refreshing flavors into your party.

Gardening-planting

  • Sun Salutations

Even if you’ve never tried yoga before, take time to honor the son through Sun Salutations. Surya Namaskar, the Sun Salutation, is a series of 12 postures performed in a single, graceful flow. These exercises and specific movements are intended to exercise both your body and your soul, balancing both in harmony through both meditation and physical movement in one.

Yoga Sun Salutation Summer Solstice

  • Outdoor Reading 

The summer solstice marks the perfect opportunity to become acquainted with nature, so why not celebrate the occasion with a good book? Hang a hammock, sit on a chair or even lay in the grass to experience the fresh outdoors. Should you find that you would prefer to meditate instead, use the time outside to become centered within. Are you still aligned with your goals or have you strayed from them? Take this opportunity to recharge and refuel so that you can make any necessary changes to achieve your aims in life.

Reading a Book Outside

How do you plan to celebrate the Summer Solstice? We would love to hear from you! Share your plans in the comment section below.