Summer Solstice 2025: Longest Day of the Year Approaches

JUNE 16, 2025

As summer approaches in the Northern Hemisphere, the 2025 summer solstice is set to occur on June 20 at 10:42 PM ET. This day marks the longest day of the year, when the sun reaches its highest altitude in the sky and shines most directly on this portion of the Earth.

The summer solstice occurs due to Earth’s axial tilt, which is approximately 23.5 degrees. According to astronomer Jonti Horner from Australia’s University of Southern Queensland, this tilt directs sunlight more intensely toward the Northern Hemisphere as Earth orbits the sun.

For those on the east coast of the United States, the solstice moment will happen at 10:42 PM. This event simultaneously signifies the start of summer in the Northern Hemisphere and the beginning of winter in the Southern Hemisphere.

During the solstice, the sun’s path will take it to a latitude known as the Tropic of Cancer, located at 23.5 degrees north of the equator. This point represents the northern limit of the sun’s journey across the sky. At noon, the sun will appear to stand still for a brief period before reversing its course.

Historically, the solstices have held immense significance in many cultures. They marked key points in the agricultural calendar, with communities celebrating the promise of longer days and the beginning of summer. Festivals around the solstice have persisted, notably in Northern European countries where traditions include dancing and bonfires.

Despite popular belief, the hottest weather does not occur on the summer solstice itself but rather in late July and August. This phenomenon, known as the lag of the seasons, is due to Earth’s gradual warming after the lengthy winter months.

The length of the seasons can also vary; in the Northern Hemisphere, summer consists of 94 days, while spring lasts 93 days. These differences arise from Earth’s elliptical orbit and gravitational pull from the sun.

In 2025, as the sun climbs in the sky, it will signal the arrival of summer, encouraging people worldwide to embrace the warmth and light of the season.