Celebrating the Longest Day: A Guide to the Summer Solstice and Its Global Celebrations in 2025
As the world continues to warm up, it's time to mark the arrival of summer with the summer solstice, which will occur on Friday, June 20, 2025. This event marks the longest day and shortest night of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, according to the National Weather Service (NWS). The summer solstice is also the start of the Pagan holiday known as Litha or Midsummer, which is often celebrated with hilltop bonfires and dancing.
The summer solstice is a significant event that occurs when the Northern Hemisphere's tilt toward the Sun is greatest, resulting in more sunlight during the solstice itself. This day, which only lasts for a few moments, is a time of celebration and reflection for many people around the world.
The date of the summer solstice can fall at any point between June 20 and June 22, depending on the year. In 2024, the solstice fell on Thursday, June 20. This year, however, it will occur on Friday, June 20, 2025, at 10:42 p.m. ET.
One of the most famous solstice celebrations takes place at the ancient Stonehenge ruins in Wiltshire, England. The prehistoric ruins, built between approximately 3100 and 1600 BC, are aligned with the sun and have been a site of religious significance for people who subscribe to New Age beliefs, including Neopaganism and Neo-Druids. Thousands of people gather to witness the moment the sun peeks perfectly through its pillars.
In addition to Stonehenge, other locations around the world are known for celebrating the solstice. Newgrange in Ireland is one such location, where solstices are often associated with pagan religions and draw people of different faiths.
Whether you're planning to celebrate at Stonehenge or in your own backyard, the summer solstice is a time to reflect on the start of summer and to look forward to the long days and warm weather ahead. So grab a blanket, some friends, and a good book, and enjoy the longest day of the year!
