Seasons & solstices · in 7 days
When is Summer Solstice?
Summer Solstice 2026 is on Sunday, June 21, 2026.
Summer Solstice 2026 falls on Sunday, June 21, 2026.
The longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere and the start of astronomical summer.
In 2026, it falls in ISO week 25. Need the full year's calendar? See all 2026 weeks, or browse every other date.
At a glance
The history of Summer Solstice
The summer solstice occurs when Earth's North Pole tilts most directly toward the Sun, giving the Northern Hemisphere its longest daylight of the year. Stonehenge, built around 3000 BC, is famously aligned to the sunrise on this day. Cultures across history have marked it: ancient Egyptians timed the flooding of the Nile to it, Druids and modern pagans gather at sacred sites, Scandinavians light bonfires for Midsummer.
Also known as: June Solstice, Midsummer
How Summer Solstice is celebrated
Thousands gather at Stonehenge to watch the sunrise. Scandinavia, particularly Sweden, celebrates Midsummer's Eve as one of its biggest holidays with maypoles, flower crowns and bonfires. The Arctic Circle sees the midnight sun. Many cities host outdoor music and yoga events.
Did you know?
Above the Arctic Circle, the sun doesn't set at all on the summer solstice.
Stonehenge's stones are aligned with the solstice sunrise, suggesting prehistoric astronomical knowledge.
The earliest sunrise of the year doesn't fall on the solstice; it's a few days earlier.
Summer Solstice in upcoming years
How the date is set
Around June 21 each year.
Sources & further reading
For more detail on Summer Solstice, see these references.
Related dates
Summer Solstice: questions and answers
When is Summer Solstice 2026?
Summer Solstice 2026 falls on Sunday, June 21, 2026.
What day of the week is Summer Solstice this year?
In 2026, Summer Solstice is a Sunday, June 21.
How is the date of Summer Solstice determined?
Around June 21 each year.