Delaware’s recent dose of sunny skies has led us all to believe that summer is already in full swing, but the official start of the season is still a few weeks away.
While some of us have already indulged in weekend beach trips, backyard barbecues and catching rays by the pool, we don’t officially transition into summer until the summer solstice.
When is the summer solstice?
The summer solstice marks the first day of summer. In the Northern Hemisphere, it typically occurs in late June. In the Southern Hemisphere, it occurs in late December.
This year in the U.S., the summer solstice is celebrated on June 21, according to TimeandDate.com.
What is the summer solstice?
The summer solstice is the longest day of the year, meaning it has the most hours of sunlight. On this day we will see the sun at its highest point in the sky, taking longer for it to rise and set.
After the summer solstice, the days gradually will start to lose sunlight during the season. This occurs slowly at first before picking up speed, bringing us to the start of fall on Sept. 23 this year.
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But don’t worry about your fun in the sun. Although we’ll see less daylight as the season carries on, temperatures will continue to rise as the earth takes time to cool down (called seasonal lag), making way for the dog days of summer we know and – sometimes – love.
On average, summer lasts for about 93.6 days, according to TimeandDate.com.
How to celebrate the summer solstice in Delaware
Summer solstice celebrations vary based on location, but the common theme across many cultures is to enjoy festivities with friends and family.
In Delaware, our proximity to the beaches makes a sandy bonfire or trip to the boardwalk an accessible excursion, but there are plenty of other ways to show summer how much we’ve missed it.
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Here are some of our favorite activities for a sunny day in the First State:
- Visiting local botanical gardens or hiking trails is an easy way to soak up some sun. Delaware is home to many floral and forest adventures, so there’s sure to be a spot with the exact view you’re looking for.
- Delaware’s abundance of state parks means ample opportunities for camping. If camping in the woods isn’t your cup of tea, beach camping can be found in several locations.
- Taking a ride on the Cape May-Lewes Ferry! Check out the beautiful views and wildlife sightings during your trip across the Delaware Bay before exploring Cape May, New Jersey, through its coastal cuisine, local history and attractions like museums and whale watching.
Got a tip or a story idea? Contact Krys’tal Griffin at kgriffin@delawareonline.com.
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