SAN DIEGO — June 20 marks the summer solstice, the longest day of the year, signaling the official start of summer in San Diego and across the Northern Hemisphere.
On this significant day, the sun is set to rise at 5:41 a.m. and set at 8:00 p.m., marking the latest sunset of the year.
With a total day length of 14 hours and 19 minutes, residents and visitors alike will enjoy the longest daylight hours of the year.
This extended daylight will continue for several weeks, tapering off only after mid-July.
As summer progresses, the day length will gradually decrease, with the Autumnal Equinox occurring on September 22 when daylight will diminish to 12 hours.
By December, as winter approaches, the day length will drop to under 10 hours.
The summer solstice also signifies the shortest night of the year, with night hours going below 9 hours.
For those in the Northern Hemisphere, this solstice represents the longest day and the shortest night, attributed to Earth’s axial tilt.
The tilt allows the Northern Hemisphere to receive more direct sunlight during this period.
To celebrate this special occasion, several events are set to take place across San Diego.
One key event is the Summer Solstice Celebration at the Rancho Bernardo Inn, which kicks off at 2:00 p.m. on the Buena Vista Terrace.
Attendees can unwind in comfortable lounges while enjoying chilled Frosé, unique summer cocktails, and thoughtfully prepared small bites that highlight seasonal flavors.
As daylight fades, guests will be treated to acoustic music and can raise a glass during a sunset toast, making memories on the longest day of the year.
Another event is the Summer Solstice Circle hosted by Yoga One, promoting connections with nature through guided meditation, gentle movements, and intention-setting.
Participants are encouraged to come as they are and leave feeling refreshed and empowered.
Additionally, the Andaz Rooftop will be hosting a pool party on June 21, 2025, at 2:00 p.m., inviting attendees to celebrate the summer solstice in style atop the Andaz San Diego, complete with music and festivities.
While the Northern Hemisphere enjoys extended daylight, those in the Southern Hemisphere will experience the winter solstice, resulting in less than 12 hours of daylight.
According to NASA, this astronomical event illustrates the differing daylight experiences across the globe.
Beginning Saturday, the transition to shorter days will commence in the Northern Hemisphere, with sunsets arriving progressively earlier.
This gradual shift will continue until the winter solstice in December, after which daylight hours will begin to reclaim their length.
In 2025, the summer solstice will occur at precisely 7:42 p.m. PT (10:42 p.m. EDT) on June 20, according to TimeandDate.
Despite the common belief that the solstice takes place over an entire day, it essentially occurs as a moment in time.
This is consistent with the information provided by the Old Farmer’s Almanac.
The summer solstice is fundamentally caused by the Earth’s axial tilt, which is about 23.5 degrees.
This tilt leads to variations in sunlight exposure across different geographical areas.
During June, the North Pole is tilted towards the sun, which results in the warmer temperatures and prolonged daylight characteristic of summer in the Northern Hemisphere.
In summary, San Diego’s summer solstice offers wonderful opportunities for celebrations, reflecting the vibrancy and energy of the season.
From outdoor gatherings to mindful practices, the community will embrace the longest day of the year, setting a positive tone for the summer ahead.
image source from：cbs8
