Summer solstice
The Summer Solstice has been celebrated for thousands of years across various cultures, often with festivals, rituals, and symbolic traditions tied to fertility, light, and the power of the sun.
Summer Solstice celebrations at Stonehenge (England)
Stonehenge, the iconic prehistoric monument in Wiltshire, is one of the world’s most famous sites for Summer Solstice celebrations. Its alignment with the rising sun on the solstice suggests it was built as a Neolithic solar calendar (around 2500 BCE).  

 Astronomical Significance
- The Heel Stone aligns perfectly with the sunrise on the Summer Solstice, casting sunlight directly into the center of the stone circle.  
- This phenomenon draws thousands who gather to witness the first rays of the longest day.

Modern Solstice Gatherings
Who Attends?
 - druids & pagans.  Many modern druid groups (like the Order of Bards, Ovates & Druids) hold rituals.  
  - New Age spiritualists. People come for meditation, chanting, and energy ceremonies.  
  - tourists & revelers. A mix of locals and international visitors join for the festive atmosphere.  
What happens?
  - sunrise observance. Crowds gather before dawn (around 4:45 AM) to watch the sun rise over the Heel Stone.  
  - drumming & music. Spontaneous drum circles, singing, and dancing break out.  
  - ceremonial blessings. Druids in white robes conduct rituals, sometimes with horns, staffs, and offerings.  

 Unique traditions & customs
- touching the stones. Normally forbidden, on solstice, visitors can walk among and touch the megaliths.  
- flower crowns & face paint. Many attendees wear nature-inspired decorations.  
- silent sunrise moment. A hush often falls as the sun appears, followed by cheers.  

Why Stonehenge?
- ancient mystery: no one knows for sure why Stonehenge was built, but its solstice alignment suggests a deep connection to sun worship.  
- living tradition: despite its Neolithic origins, the solstice celebration remains a vibrant, evolving event blending ancient and modern spirituality.