What is the summer solice?

The summer solstice is the astronomical event that occurs around June 21 in the Northern Hemisphere, marking the longest day of the year. It happens when the Earth's axial tilt is closest to the sun, resulting in the most direct sunlight for that hemisphere. This event signifies the official start of summer and is celebrated in various cultures with festivals and rituals. In the Southern Hemisphere, the summer solstice occurs around December 21, marking its longest day.