Summer Solstice: Everything You Need to Know

June 20: the summer solstice in the Northern Hemisphere.

What is it?

"The summer solstice occurs when the Earth's northern pole is tilted closest to the sun. It's also the point where the Earth is farthest from the Sun in its orbital path."

When does it happen?

• Northern Hemisphere: June 20/21.
• Southern Hemisphere: Around December 21/22 *

Daylight hours?

• Near the equator: ~12 hours.
• Mid-northern latitudes (Mexico, USA): Up to ~15 hours.
• Texas: ~14 hours, 6 mins *

First day of summer?

Usually, yes. But in some cultures, it's viewed as midsummer.