Every year, the summer solstice marks a special astronomical event when one of the Earth’s poles is tilted most toward the sun. This results in the sun reaching its highest point in the sky, bringing with it the longest day of the year. For millennia, people have honored this event with celebrations that draw on ancient traditions. From the mysterious allure of Stonehenge to romantic folklore in Eastern Europe, the solstice has been a time of unity, celebration, and ritual.
In the Northern Hemisphere, the solstice typically falls on June 20, 21, or 22, and many cultures observe it through Midsummer festivities. Sweden is especially prominent in these celebrations, particularly since the release of the 2019 film Midsommar, which heightened American interest. However, across the world, people mark this celestial event in diverse and meaningful ways—from fiery displays in the Austrian Alps to symbolic rituals in Colombia.
Here are eight remarkable places to experience the summer solstice in 2025, including the dates and the unique cultural traditions associated with each location.
Stonehenge, United Kingdom – Saturday, June 21, 2025
At the ancient site of Stonehenge in Wiltshire, crowds gather every year to witness the sun rise above the prehistoric stones, which were intentionally arranged to align with the sun during solstices. This connection between the structure and the heavens has long fascinated archaeologists and spiritual seekers alike. The summer solstice draws thousands who wish to experience the power of the moment when night is shortest and the sun is at its peak. The event is spiritual and solemn, with rules to match: no alcohol is allowed except for ceremonial mead. “It’s believed that people have gathered here to mark the summer solstice for thousands of years,” making it one of the oldest continuous celebrations linked to the solstice.
Turov, Belarus – Sunday, July 6 to Monday, July 7, 2025
In Belarus, the summer solstice is commemorated with the festival of Ivan Kupala Day, a pagan celebration observed in various Eastern European countries. In the town of Turov, young women participate in a ritual that involves floating flower garlands, known as chaplets, on a river. The movement of these garlands is thought to offer insight into their romantic futures. This tradition mixes mysticism with love and youth, continuing an ancient belief system tied to nature and the rhythms of the earth. “The floating flowers are set off by young women, who try to gain insight into the future of their romantic relationships from the way they float.”
Denmark – Saturday, June 21, 2025
In Denmark, the summer solstice aligns with the observance of John the Baptist’s birth, which is said to have occurred six months prior to Jesus’. The Danes link the event with myth and folklore, particularly the belief that witches travel to the Brocken, a mountain peak in Germany, during this time. The fusion of Christian and pagan traditions makes Denmark’s Midsummer festivities both religious and mythical in tone. It is a time when bonfires light up the landscape and folklore becomes vividly alive.
Sweden – Saturday, June 21, 2025
Sweden’s Midsummer celebration is perhaps one of the most recognizable solstice traditions worldwide. People gather in the countryside to raise and dance around flower-decorated maypoles, celebrating life, fertility, and the arrival of summer. Afterward, classic Swedish foods like pickled herrings and aquavit are enjoyed. Public parks across Sweden host outdoor events, complete with traditional folk costumes and music. For the most authentic experience, travelers can visit Dalarna County, a hub of traditional festivities. Or, for a more unique atmosphere, they can chase the Midnight Sun in Riksgränsen. “In Sweden, flower-covered maypoles are put up in the countryside for revelers to dance around—followed by classic snacks of pickled herrings and aquavit.”
Berga, Spain – Saturday, June 21, 2025
In the Catalan region of Spain, particularly in the town of Berga near Barcelona, locals take part in a summer solstice celebration that harks back to medieval times. Participants dress up as mythical or religious characters, donning oversized ‘big head’ masks that contribute to the surreal and festive ambiance. This traditional event weaves together history, religion, and performance, showcasing Spain’s deep-rooted cultural heritage. “The townspeople of Berga… dress up as mystical or religious characters with typical ‘big head’ masks in a celebration that dates back to the Middle Ages.”
Tyrol, Austria – Saturday, June 21, 2025
High in the Austrian Alps, in the region of Tyrol, the summer solstice is marked with breathtaking fire displays. Locals light up to 8,000 fires across the Mieminger mountain range and beyond. These flames form effigies and symbols inspired by religion, mythology, nature, and even contemporary events. What makes this event particularly exciting is the secrecy surrounding the designs, which are only revealed when the fires are ignited at sunset. As twilight descends on Innsbruck and surrounding areas, the mountains glow with the light of fire, transforming the landscape into a spiritual canvas. “The details are kept a secret until the evening of the summer solstice. As the sun sets, fires will be lit in Innsbruck and beyond.”
Finland – Saturday, June 21, 2025
In Finland, the Midsummer period is referred to as the “white nights,” as the sky barely darkens. Historically, this was a time for fertility spells and mystical practices aimed at enhancing life and love. Today, one of the key solstice rituals is sauna bathing—a deeply ingrained part of Finnish culture that symbolizes purification and renewal. Bonfires remain a part of the tradition too, serving as both a connection to the past and a centerpiece for social gatherings. “Bonfires are lit, a throwback to hundreds of years ago when spells to increase fertility were cast by local people. Now, sauna bathing is a popular summer solstice ritual.”
Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, Colombia – Friday, June 20, 2025
In Colombia’s Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, the solstice coincides with the religious festival of Corpus Christi. The event takes a dramatic turn as locals dress as devils, adorned with numerous tiny bells around their legs. Mirrors are strapped to their backs to capture the sun’s energy on the longest day of the year. The ritual is symbolic, representing the age-old conflict between good and evil. These vivid costumes and energetic performances reflect the unique blend of Catholic and indigenous beliefs in the region. “They wear mirrors on their backs to harness the power of the sun on the longest day of the year. The ritual represents the fight between God and the Devil.”
From solemn rites in ancient stone circles to lively parades and bonfire rituals, the summer solstice in 2025 promises to be a powerful and enriching experience around the globe. Each location offers its own distinct interpretation of this timeless celestial event, blending mythology, religion, romance, and community into one unforgettable day.