The longest day of the year in the northern hemisphere—the summer solstice—is upon us, happening this Friday, June 21st. On this special day, Philadelphians can expect anywhere from 15–16 hours of sunlight, whereas those in more northern regions might see up to 24 hours of daylight on the summer solstice.
For the history buffs, the summer solstice has been and continues to have an interesting relationship with Stonehenge, with its exact specifics remaining unknown. It was built over 5,000 years ago without a discovered purpose. On the summer solstice, the sun shines in the dead center of the Altar Stone and just barely grazes the top of the Heel Stone. On both the summer and winter solstice days each year, hundreds of visitors flock to the site to celebrate the occasion and imagine what the sunrise and sunset might have looked like with the full structure intact.
While not all of us will get the chance to head to Stonehenge this Friday, there are still plenty of ways to celebrate the summer solstice in Philly!
Many might be familiar with The Deck at the Moshulu from Penn formal events held throughout the year. The ship is permanently docked in the harbor of the Delaware, with unforgettable views of the riverfront, water, and the city of Philadelphia. From 10pm–2am this Friday evening and Saturday morning, The Deck at Moshulu is celebrating the official start to summer with a DJ Dance Party, with tickets currently being sold from $5!
2. CultureFEST! Summer Solstice Saturday at the Penn Museum
Looking to stay on campus over the weekend? Be sure to check out the festivities at the Penn museum on Saturday, June 22nd, including outdoor yoga, drum circles and Tai Chi. You will learn more about the significance of the solstice in different cultures all over the world. After 5pm this Saturday, the Summer Nights Music Series will begin with live music from Samantha Rise, a health and healing oriented bazaar (with herbal medicine, all–natural skin care, meditation, Reiki, Eastern Medicine, yoga therapy, and birth and star charts), along with tarot readings, and cocktails.
3. Molestice 2019 (for Mole Street in Philadelphia)
On this Saturday, June 22nd, the 100 block of N. Mole Street in Philadelphia will be ignited by the annual block party and music festival known to locals as “Molestice.” Here, you will experience activities for all ages, a beer tasting opportunity, a gathering of all of Philly’s best food trucks, and live performances from local artists.
Regardless of where you are, be sure to get outside to celebrate the official start to summer and the most amount of sunlight you’ll see all year. Whether it be through early morning yoga or an outdoor music festival, this is one weekend of festivities you won’t want to miss out on.
