The summer solstice, also known as Midsummer, is a joyous and magical time when the sun reaches its highest point in the sky, marking the longest day of the year. It's the perfect opportunity to celebrate the beauty of nature and create lasting memories with your family.
Here are creative and family-friendly ways to celebrate summer: |
Host a Backyard Campout:
Kick off the summer solstice celebration by hosting a backyard campout with your family. Set up a tent, gather cozy blankets and pillows, and create a magical atmosphere with fairy lights and lanterns. Spend the evening stargazing, telling stories, and enjoying delicious treats like s'mores. As the sun rises on the longest day, welcome the new day together with a sense of wonder and adventure.
Here's how to Make Your Own Backyard or In House Camp-Out
How about Camping with Kids Advice
And, here's a great S'more Recipe
Create Sun-inspired Crafts:
Let your family's creativity shine by engaging in sun-inspired crafts. Decorate your home with handmade sun catchers using colorful tissue paper or paint sun-themed artworks using bright and vibrant colors. You can also make paper crowns adorned with sunflowers or create sun-shaped wind chimes to hang in your garden. These crafts will not only brighten your space but also serve as a reminder of the sun's warmth and energy.
Here's an Easy Sun-Catcher Craft
Have a Sun-themed Picnic:
Gather your loved ones for a sun-themed picnic in a local park or your own backyard. Prepare a variety of bright and refreshing foods, such as colorful fruit skewers, sun-shaped sandwiches, and lemonade. Encourage everyone to dress in shades of yellow and orange to represent the sun's radiance. Spend quality time together, playing outdoor games, and basking in the warmth of the summer sun.
Here's advice on Having a Great Family Picnic
Explore Nature's Beauty:
Take advantage of the longer daylight hours by embarking on a nature adventure. Visit a local nature reserve, hike through a scenic trail, or explore a nearby beach. Encourage your family to observe and appreciate the wonders of nature, from the vibrant colors of blooming flowers to the tranquil sounds of chirping birds. Capture the magic by taking photographs or drawing sketches of the natural beauty you encounter.
Here are 5 Creative Ways to Explore Nature with Kids
How about Birdwatching Tips
Maybe a Painting with Nature Craft
or a simple, local nature hike or walk - Here's our Guide on Great Family-Friendly Trails Nearby
Create a Family Sun Ritual:
Incorporate a family sun ritual into your summer solstice celebration. Find a serene spot outdoors, perhaps in your backyard or a nearby park, and gather together. Begin by sharing gratitude for the sun's warmth and energy, and take turns expressing your hopes and dreams for the summer season. Consider creating a sun-themed dance or meditation to honor the solstice. Embrace the moment as a time for reflection, renewal, and setting intentions for the months ahead.
Here are tips on Meditation and Mindfulness for the Whole Family
Light a Solstice Bonfire:
As the day turns to night, light a solstice bonfire to symbolize the power and warmth of the sun. Ensure you follow safety guidelines and local regulations when it comes to fires. Gather around the fire with your family, telling stories and singing songs. You can even write down any worries or negative energy on pieces of paper and cast them into the fire, letting go and welcoming positivity.
The summer solstice is a magical time to celebrate the abundance of light and nature's beauty with your family. Whether you choose to have a backyard campout, create sun-inspired crafts, enjoy a sun-themed picnic, explore nature, or create a family sun ritual, these activities will foster togetherness, creativity, and appreciation for the world around us. Embrace the magic of the summer solstice and create treasured memories that will be cherished for years to come.
Be sure to tell local businesses and events you found them
on Macaroni Kid Greater Woodbridge
and make sure to tell all your friends!