This year’s summer solstice, the longest day of the year in the northern hemisphere, falls on June 20, 2021. This official start to the summer season is the day of the year when Earth is tilting mostly toward the sun, with the noonday sun shining directly overhead. If that’s not reason to celebrate, we don’t know what is. Here are six ways you can welcome the summer sun and enjoy the beauty of the season.
1. Take a hike at Vaughn Branch Nature Preserve.
Located on the city’s edge in Frankfort, this nature preserve managed by Woods & Waters Land Trust includes a half-mile round-trip trail that is great for birding and viewing local plant life, including the federally endangered Braun’s rockcress.
2. Check out your noontime shadow.
During the summer solstice, your noontime shadow is the shortest of the year. Commemorate the occasion by making shadow art. Using objects found on your land, create a sculpture that casts an interesting shadow, and then use sidewalk chalk or chalk paint to trace it and color it in.
3. Paddle down the Elkhorn Creek.
Nothing beats dipping your toes in the creek on a hot summer’s day. Grab a canoe, kayak or stand-up paddleboard, and hit the Elkhorn for a paddling adventure.
4. Forage for St. John’s Wort.
As we approach summer solstice, the non-native St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum) begins to bloom in fields and along forest edges. This plant is identified by its yellow blossoms that release red oil when pinched between the fingers and its perforated leaves that form a cross when you look down the stem. The buds and flowers preserved in oil make a great home remedy for burns, which could be helpful if you end up being out in the sun too long on this longest day of the year, and because it’s an exotic species, you don’t have to feel bad about picking it.
5. Watch the sunset.
If you ask us, nothing beats the rich colors and expansiveness of a Kentucky sunset. If you’ve enjoyed a full day of summer sun, grab a comfy chair and chilled drink to wind down the day with a picturesque view.
6. Enjoy a bonfire with friends.
Gather your favorite people and celebrate the summer solstice with a potluck and bonfire. Invite attendees to bring their favorite summer foods grown or foraged from their land to bring an extra spark of conviviality to the evening.
