The longest day of the year, and the official start of summer, has arrived in the U.S.
The summer solstice takes place Friday, June 20, and will be both the longest day and shortest night of 2025 in the Northern Hemisphere, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).
Recognized as a day of extra sunlight that ushers in warmer weather to come, the solstice is also celebrated in multiple cultures and religions. It marks the start of the Pagan holiday Litha, also known as Midsummer, which is famously celebrated at the ancient Stonehenge ruins in Wiltshire, England, where many gather to herald the season.
Here's what to know about the solstice.
The summer solstice marks the beginning of summer in the Northern Hemisphere and the longest day of the year. Meanwhile, the Southern Hemisphere will greet winter with its winter solstice.
