Summer Solstice

Summer Solstice History

The Summer Solstice, or Midsummer, is a significant observance marking the beginning of summer and the longest day of the year. As Earth tilts on its axis, the Northern Hemisphere experiences longer daylight hours than any other time in the year. This astronomical event is of immense cultural and historical importance, as numerous societies value the power and influence of the sun, stemming from ancient pagan beliefs.

In the Netherlands, the Summer Solstice has its roots in ancient Celtic and Germanic traditions, which celebrated the sun as the source of life, vitality, and fertility. The Dutch folklore is rich with tales of people paying homage to the sun on this sacred occasion. To this day, this observance is relevant in the Netherlands because it signifies a time of renewal, optimism, and unity as people gather to honor and celebrate the natural beauty, fertility, and vivacity of the land.

The Dutch people often engage in various customs to observe the Summer Solstice. These activities include gathering around bonfires, dancing, singing, and sharing a feast with friends and family. Folklore-inspired events, ceremonies, and performances occur across the country, celebrating the link between the sun, nature, and the people. In the Netherlands, the Summer Solstice is observed annually on June 21st. The Dutch people embrace the significance of nature and the energy of the sun, making the Summer Solstice a moment of collective joy, gratitude, and conviviality.

Facts about Summer Solstice

• The summer solstice in one hemisphere is the winter solstice in the other hemisphere.
• Many Native American tribes celebrated the Summer Solstice by holding "sun dances".
• In Dutch, the Summer Solstice is called Zomersolstitium, and it marks the official start of the astronomical summer.
• Some ancient sites in the Netherlands, such as the prehistoric hunebedden (megalithic burial chambers), align with the sun during the Summer Solstice. This indicates that this astronomical event had significant cultural and religious significance for the people who created these structures.

In the News and Trending in Netherlands for Summer Solstice

Top things to do in Netherlands for Summer Solstice

• Host a bonfire to celebrate the arrival of summer.
• Start the day with the Sun Salutation and some additional yoga exercises.
• Attend Camp Moonrise, the multi-genre music festival held over the summer solstice weekend in the Veluwe region that features music, art, and immersive experiences.
• Visit Giethoorn, also known as the Venice of the North. Giethoorn is a picturesque village with canals, wooden bridges, and traditional farmhouses. Renting a boat and exploring the village during summer is a popular activity for both locals and tourists.