It’s commonly known as midsummer, immortalized in many works of art and literature. But the summer solstice actually takes place when one of the Earth’s poles keeps its maximum tilt toward the sun. It occurs twice a year, one in the Northern Hemisphere and another in the Southern Hemisphere. Here are interesting trivia about the summer solstice.
Astronomers can calculate an exact moment for the solstice, when the planet reaches the point in its orbit where the North Pole is angled closest to the mighty sun. This year, that moment was at 6:07 a.m. Eastern time on June 21, and from Earth the sun appeared farthest north relative to the stars.
Image source: Collective-Evolution.com
There are many world traditions built around the summer solstice. In the Northern Hemisphere, it’s historically linked to awakening libidos. Small wonder: it tends to kick off the beginning of the summer season accompanied by the harvest. Naturally, the solstice will be linked to fertility in many places around the world.
The Scandinavian tradition of celebrating midsummer involves dancing around a maypole, a symbol viewed by some as phallic, as well as having huge feasts over herring and vodka. In Greece, the pagan solstice has been co-opted by Christianity and called St. John’s Day, with ancient rites conducted in many villages.
Perhaps among the biggest solstice celebrations found anywhere is the one held at Stonehenge in England, where thousands converge every year to usher in the summer season. Don’t forget the variety of bonfires, festivals, and Fête de la Musique celebrations in different parts of the globe.
Image source: Vox.com
/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/6669949/1280px-North_season.0.jpg){kind=link}