The Summer Solstice on June 21 is the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, and many countries celebrate it with fun festivals and special traditions.
Sweden – Midsummer Fun
In Sweden, people celebrate Midsummer by dancing around the maypole, singing songs, and enjoying a traditional meal with pickled herring, potatoes, and strawberries with cream. Families often go to the countryside, but big cities like Stockholm also host celebrations. In Lapland, tourists enjoy horseback riding and hiking under the midnight sun.
England – Sunrise at Stonehenge
In England, thousands gather at the ancient monument Stonehenge to watch the sun rise. Historians believe it was built to line up with the solstice sunrise. Druids and pagans hold rituals there, seeing the solstice as a symbol of luck, magic, and new beginnings.
Alaska – Midnight Sun Celebrations
In Alaska, the sun stays up for weeks. Locals in Anchorage enjoy music, dance, and fun events under the never-ending sunlight. People go hiking on the Glen Alps trail and gather on beaches and parks to celebrate. Some even take part in midnight marathons.
St. Petersburg, Russia – White Nights
In St. Petersburg, the solstice is part of the famous White Nights. The sun hardly sets, and the city stays awake all night. Cafes stay open, and the main celebration is the Scarlet Sails Festival with fireworks, concerts, and boats with red sails. Over a million people attend, and many more watch on TV. It’s a celebration of light, hope, and summer joy.
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