The summer solstice offers the most hours of daylight all year, and occurs when one of the Earth’s poles has its maximum tilt toward the sun. The summer solstice falls on June 20, 21, or 22 in the Northern Hemisphere.

The longest day of the year and the beginning of astrological summer is a source of celebration for many people. Come the summer solstice, the warm weather stabilizes, and there are more days of sunshine and mild temperatures. It is also a season of school breaks and family vacations. People can commemorate the start of summer in many fun and different ways.

  • Plan a hike. With more daylight hours, the solstice is the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors. There’s no need to rush, as the sun sets late in the evening, giving those who have to work or attend school earlier in the day an opportunity to enjoy a hike after signing off.

  • Take a photo. Make it a tradition to take a “first day of summer” photo each year. Everyone can pose in their favorite summer outfits or wear coordinating T-shirts

  • Change the decor. Now is a perfect time to update a home’s decor with bright, summery details. Pull out bright throw pillows, switch to citrus or coconut-scented candles for a beachy mood, and fill a bowl with limes, lemons, and oranges for an easy summer centerpiece.

  • Make a summer treat. Spend the day trying a new summer recipe, such as homemade ice cream, s’mores, fresh lemonade, or a frozen mocktail.

  • Take a plunge: Take a trip to the seaside, a pool, or a lake. It’s a peak time for swimming, water sports, and boating.  

These are some entertaining ways people can celebrate the first day of summer.