Summer Solstice Weekend

Summer Solstice Weekend is here. Summer begins with the solstice on Friday, June 20, 2025, marking the astronomical first day of summer in the Northern Hemisphere. What exactly IS the summer solstice? Is it really the longest day of the year? Welcome the solstice with some interesting facts and folklore. People mark this event with celebrations include festivals, carnivals, marathons and other special regional events.

What is the Summer Solstice?

Originally, the word solstice is from the Latin words solstitium: sol (Sun) and stitium (still or stopped) In the Northern Hemisphere, the sun reaches its highest and most northern point in the sky. “At the summer solstice, the Sun travels the longest path through the sky, and that day therefore has the most daylight.” The North Pole is tilted about 23.4 degrees which causes the sun’s rays to shift northward. Therefore, the summer solstice is known to be the longest day of the year and the shortest night.

Celebrating

Many people worldwide celebrate Summer Solstice in various ways. Traditionally, people celebrate the solstice as a renewal of life, fertility, and the potential for a good harvest. As well as, the full return of sunlight. Whereas, modern celebrations of the summer solstice include, cookouts, concerts, and bonfires.

Most Alaskans make the most of long hours of sunlight by attending community events or enjoying outdoor activities, such as hiking, picnics, and camping throughout Alaska. You can also browse social media to see if there are any events happening in your local city.

Fairbanks, Alaska

Since 1906, the Midnight Sun Festival and Baseball Game are held annually over the Summer Solstice weekend in Fairbanks, Alaska. The Midnight Sun Baseball Game traditionally begins at 10:00 p.m. and ends in the early hours of the following day. On Friday, June 20th the interior should see approximately 22 constant hours of sunlight and more than 21 hours on Saturday and Sunday.

Anchorage, Alaska

Anchorage has a local tradition for hikers to ascend the Flat Top trail during Summer Solstice Weekend to enjoy the seemingly endless sunset. You might score a view of the Anchorage skyline and Denali in sublime color wash – barring rain or wildfires. Expect daylight to last 21 hours or more in Anchorage throughout the solstice weekend. There are many other celebratory events, including the Anchorage Mayor’s Marathon and Half-Marathon. 

Juneau, Alaska

Alaska’s capital city, Juneau, also hosts annual including Juneau Gold Rush Days in the week leading to the longest day of the year as well as the Summer Solstice Music Festival. Juneau expects more than 18 hours of daylight over Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. 

Communities throughout the state host annual music and brewing festivals, concerts, and community events to celebrate Summer Solstice Weekend. Stay safe next weekend and enjoy the Midnight Sun!

Celebrate Summer Solstice Safely

The mosquitoes will be as relentless as the sun throughout the Summer Solstice Weekend. It’s important to remember insect repellent spray or lotion. In addition, lather on the sunscreen, and remember to continue applying all day and at night, if you plan to be outdoors. Also remember to reapply sunscreen after washing your hands or face.

Avoid dehydration and heat exhaustion by drinking plenty of water throughout the Summer Solstice Weekend. Do not skip any meals. Many people each year require first aid assistance during their celebrations from experiencing dehydration, extreme fatigue, and even heat stroke. Take occasional breaks from direct sunlight and allow your body to cool down.

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Sources: The Old Farmer’s Almanac; Britannica

Image: Land of Midnight Sun Alaska: Skies at 11:30 p.m.– Source: Twitter – @donrearden