June Solstice

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If you’re in the Northern Hemisphere, you’ll be treated to long, warm days with plenty of sunshine.
In the Southern Hemisphere, it’s time to break out the winter gear and prepare for the start of winter.

But no matter where you are, the June Solstice is a time to celebrate the beauty of nature and the changing of the seasons.
The June solstice, which occurs around June 20th or 21st, marks the day when the North Pole is tilted towards the sun, resulting in the longest day and shortest night of the year in the Northern Hemisphere.
In the Southern Hemisphere, it is the exact opposite: the shortest day and longest night of the year.

When it comes to mythology, the June Solstice has a rich history.
In ancient Greece, it was believed that the sun god, Helios, rode his chariot across the sky during this time.
In Norse mythology, the sun was said to be reborn at the June Solstice and was associated with the goddess Freya, who brings fertility to the land.

For those in the Northern Hemisphere, the June Solstice is celebrated as Midsummer, St. John’s Day, or Litha, a time for bonfires, feasting, and dancing. In ancient times, it was believed that the power of the sun was at its strongest during this time and was associated with fertility and good luck.

In the Southern Hemisphere, the June Solstice is celebrated as Yule, a time for rest and rejuvenation as the coldest months approach.

In many cultures, the solstice was seen as a time of magic, when the veil between the worlds of the living and dead was lifted, allowing for communication with the spirits.

So how can we celebrate the June Solstice? Here are a few ideas:

1. Host a bonfire.
   Just like in ancient times, gather around a bonfire with friends and family and celebrate the longest day of the year.
2. Attend a solstice festival.
   Many communities host festivals and events to celebrate the solstice, with music, food, and other festivities.
3. Take a nature walk.
   Get out and enjoy the sun while it’s shining. Take a walk in a park or nature reserve and appreciate the beauty of the natural world.
4. Have a picnic.
   What better way to enjoy the sunshine than with a picnic in the park? Grab a blanket and some food, and enjoy a lovely day in the sun.

No matter how you choose to celebrate, the June Solstice is a time to appreciate the changing of the seasons and the beauty of the natural world.
So grab your sunglasses or scarf, find a patch of sunshine or snow, and let’s celebrate!

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Other names for June Solstice or similar celebrations are:
Feast of Saint John the Baptist, St. John’s Feast Day, Jāņi, Enyovden, Litha/Līþa/ Lithe, Ivan Kupala Day, Juhannus, Mittumaari, Alban Hefin, Gŵyl Ganol yr Haf, Sankthans, Joninės, Jaanipäev or Keskikesä