International Day of the Celebration of the Solstice observed on June 21

Key facts

• The International Day of the Celebration of the Solstice is celebrated on June 21 and was added to the United Nations (UN) international days list in 2019.
• The day is designed to highlight the importance of the solstice in the culture of many indigenous peoples and to encourage cultural exchange.
• The international day was initiated by Bolivia, Chile, Ecuador, and Peru to draw attention to solstice celebrations.
• In northern Europe, the summer solstice is known as Midsummer, with specific names including Jaanipäev in Estonia, Ukon juhla or Juhnannus in Finland, Līgo Day and Jāņi Day in Latvia, and Midsommar in Sweden.
• Indigenous celebrations in South America include Inti Raymi in the Andes, We Tripantu or Wiñoy Tripantu by the Mapuche, and Willkakuti or Yasitata Guasú in other regions.