Summer Solstice Arrives June 20: Longest Day of the Year

NEW YORK, NY — The summer season officially arrives on June 20 at 10:41 p.m. EDT, marking the longest day and shortest night of the year in the Northern Hemisphere.

While those in the Northern Hemisphere welcome summer, residents of the Southern Hemisphere will experience the opposite: the longest night and shortest day of the year. These seasonal changes are signified by the summer solstice for the North and the winter solstice for the South.

Solstices are key astronomical events that denote the change of the seasons, along with equinoxes. Equinoxes, occurring in March and September, signal when day and night are of equal length.

Meteorologists break down the seasons into three-month intervals based on climate and temperature patterns. In the Northern Hemisphere, summer runs from June to August.

In celebration of the summer solstice, astrologer Kyle Thomas shared exclusive insights with PEOPLE about what the event means for each zodiac sign. He emphasizes the importance of introspection and emotional grounding during this transformative time.

For Aries, Thomas suggests focusing on family dynamics and making personal changes. He advises Cancer to seize this period with self-reflection and bold ambitions as the Sun enters their sign.

Each sign has unique opportunities tied to the solstice, such as enhancing the relationship for Libra, opening pathways for new beginnings for Sagittarius, and cultivating love and creativity for Pisces.

As the sun reaches its highest point, astrologers encourage individuals to set intentions for the months ahead, making the most of this astrological moment and embracing the changes it brings.