Each June, our family takes time to welcome the Summer Solstice—the longest day and shortest night of the year. Around the world, this turning point is known by many names: Midsummer, Litha, St. John’s Day… but for us, it’s a gentle reminder to slow down, notice the season we’re in, and connect with nature in ways that feel joyful and grounding.
You don’t have to follow any specific tradition to celebrate. You just need a little intention, a spark of wonder, and maybe some sunshine. For centuries, people have honored this time as sacred, marking it with bonfires, feasts, music, and rituals of renewal.
Ways We Celebrate (and You Can Too)
Here are a few simple, meaningful ways to welcome the Solstice—year after year:
Greet the sun at dawn or sunset. Step outside, breathe deeply, and soak in the light. Say an affirmation, pray, sing a song, or just listen.
Make a flower crown using whatever’s blooming nearby.
Light a fire (a candle works too!) to symbolize the warmth and energy of the sun.
Have a seasonal feast. Think fresh berries, grilled veggies, lemonade, homemade bread. Keep it simple and delicious.
Dance or play music outside. Even a backyard playlist or a silly family dance party can become tradition.
Make something together. Press flowers, gather herbs, collect sunlight in jars, or craft a keepsake for the season.
Stay up late. Watch the stars. Talk about what summer means to you.
A Tradition You Can Return to Each Year
One of the things I love about the Summer Solstice is how it invites us to come back to the same moment, in different ways, year after year. You don’t have to do it all. You don’t have to get it “right.” Just notice. Just show up.
As our family grows and changes, our celebrations shift too. Some years we gather with friends. Some years it’s just a quiet walk and a candle. But no matter what, we mark the day and that feels like enough.
Whether you call it Solstice, Midsummer, Litha, or just “the start of real summer,” this day is a chance to reconnect with the Earth, with each other, and with whatever grounds you.
Here’s to longer light, slower evenings, barefoot mornings, and all the sweet rituals that remind us we belong to something beautiful and old.
May this Solstice and every one that follows bring warmth, joy, and just the right amount of magic.