Though it’s sort of spooky how fast this year is flying, this week we’re already getting ready to ring in the start of a new season with the summer solstice! According to the History Channel, humans may have observed the summer solstice as early as the Stone Age, and today, cultures around the world continue to celebrate the day with feasts, bonfires, picnics, and songs.
Here’s everything you need to know about the 2025 summer solstice:
What is the summer solstice?
According to the Farmer’s Almanac, the summer solstice marks the astronomical start of summer in the northern half of the globe. Also known as the June solstice, the day occurs when the Sun travels along its northernmost path in the sky.
In the Southern Hemisphere, it’s the opposite: the June solstice marks the astronomical start of winter when the Sun is at its lowest point in the sky.
When is the first day of summer?
This year, the first day of summer, or the summer solstice, is on Friday, June 20, 2025, at precisely 10:42 pm EST.
What happens during the summer solstice?
During the summer solstice, which marks the official beginning of summer, the Earth arrives at the point in its orbit where the North Pole is at its maximum tilt (about 23.5º) toward the Sun. On this day, the Northern Hemisphere receives sunlight at the most direct angle of the year.
Is the summer solstice the longest day of the year?
Yes. Because the North Pole is at its maximum tilt toward the Sun on the summer solstice, it marks the longest day of the year–the longest period of sunlight hours–and the shortest night of the year.
Does the solstice always occur on the same day?
No, the solstice does not always occur on the same day. The timing of the summer solstice is not based on a specific calendar date or time, rather it all depends on when the sun reaches its northernmost point from the celestial equator. Currently, the date of the solstice shifts between June 20th, 21st, and 22nd.
Is the summer solstice the hottest day of the year?
Nope! Just because the summer solstice is the start of summer in the Northern Hemisphere and the longest day of the year, it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the hottest day of the year. The Almanac writes:
Earth’s atmosphere, land, and oceans absorb part of the incoming energy from the Sun and store it, releasing it back as heat at various rates…At the summer solstice, the Northern Hemisphere receives the most energy (highest intensity) from the Sun due to the angle of sunlight and day length. However, the land and oceans are still relatively cool due to spring temperatures, so the maximum heating effect on air temperature is not felt just yet.
The year’s hottest temperatures typically appear in late July, August, or later, depending on latitude and other factors. The hottest time of the year in New York City is generally during July and August, with the end of July often being the peak.
What’s the forecast for this year’s summer solstice?
According to AccuWeather meteorologists, Friday, June 20th, or the summer solstice, is on track to have both “times of clouds and sun,” with a high of 85º. RealFeel, however, will reach 90º, likely due to the UV index clocking in at 11, which is considered “extreme.” For the most part, The Weather Channel is supporting AccuWeather, forecasting a high of 86º along with 52% humidity.
Beyond the summer solstice specifically, the National Weather Service’s Climate Prediction Center’s seasonal temperature outlook is predicting summer 2025 to be hotter and rainier than usual.
Oh, and don’t forget that Times Square is celebrating the summer solstice in a pretty fabulous way–by offering New Yorkers free yoga at their 23rd Annual Solstice in Times Square: Mind Over Madness Yoga. Learn more.