What is the Summer Solstice?
The word solstice is from the Latin solstitium, from sol (sun) and stitium (to stop).
Solstice happens twice a year, the first in just over a week’s time, Wednesday 21st June, the other in December.
It occurs exactly the same time all over the world, when the sun is directly over the Tropic of Cancer. The sun reaches it’s northernmost position, as seen from Earth, and does not move north or south but stands still. It then reserves its direction and starts moving south again. The Earth is actually at it’s farthest from the sun during this time. The opposite happens during the December Solstice. Traditionally, Astronomers and Scientists use the date of the Summer Solstice to mark the beginning of summer in the Northern Hemisphere and winter for the Southern Hemisphere.
Things to note: It is not usually the earliest sunrise, as this happens a few days prior, although it is technically the longest. Clock and time measured by sun dials can be blamed for this.
It’s not typically the hottest day of the year due to the time it takes for the oceans and landmasses to warm up, you have to wait a few weeks after to really enjoy that heat!
It’s celebrated all around the world in many cultures with music, dance and feasts. So the question is, what will you do this 21st June to celebrate the Summer Solice?
MIDSUMMER SOCIAL WITH HIGHLAND PARK WHISKEY
Location: 18 Ashwin Street, London, E8 3DL
Nearest Tube: Dalston Junction
Suggestion: To celebrate the Summer Solstice, ‘Orkney Single Malt with Viking Soul’ is taking over Dalston’s Roof Park with music from DJ Eelke Kleign. the night will bring life to the wonderful heritage through immersive installations.
Location: 3 Three Quays Walk, Lower Thames Street, London, EC3R 6AH
Nearest Tube: Tower Hill
Suggestion: Look up at the stars, with a drink in hand whilst enclosed in an igloo by the Thames. Need I say much else? Oh- no reservations, so be spontaneous and drop by in the evening for an unique experience.
Location: Belvedere Road, London, SE1 8XX
Nearest Tube: Waterloo
Suggestion: The Southbank Centre is a hub of excitement over the summer. This festival is on 9th-18th and many are free with whole range bringing you diverse and disruptive music!
LUNA CINEMA – BIG
Location: Victoria Embankment Gardens
Nearest Tube: Embankment
Suggestion: Luna Cinema are renowned for their open air cinema experiences. You can enjoy the classic Tom Hanks Film ‘Big’ in the centre of the city under the stars. Do remember to bring a blanket and water proofs!
Location: Berwick St James, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP3 4TQ
Suggestion: For those of you wanting to get out of the city, to greet the new dawn, we thought we would list the very enchanting Stonehenge. To find out more about the enchanting history, click here: summer-solstice
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