Celebrate the 2021 Summer Solstice with us! This week is a great time for solar power. More daylight hours means more sunshine, which means more time for power production on your rooftop.
Plus, did you know? All SunFarm Energy solar PV systems come with monitoring tools from Enphase so that you can see what your system is producing 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If you’re already a solar homeowner, make sure to track your system this week and compare to previous months.
As we lead up to the longest day of the year, follow along with us as we celebrate with crafts, outdoor activities, and even a livestream event at Stonehenge!
Monday, June 14 – What is the Summer Solstice?
In the Northern Hemisphere, the Summer Solstice occurs each year in the 20th or 21st of June. It marks the longest day of the year, and often the first day of summer. Modern-day celebrations are especially popular in Northern Europe and Scandinavia where communities hold festivals, light large bonfires, and decorate homes with garlands and other greenery. Learn more about modern day and ancient summer solstice traditions and check out our resource sheet.
Tuesday, June 15 – Solar 101
The summer solstice and solar power go hand in hand. Since the summer solstice is the longest day of the year, that means more sunshine for your solar PV system to generate power, and more free energy for you! But how exactly do solar panels turn sunlight into electricity? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with some solar 101.
Wednesday, June 16 – Getting Crafty
It’s a great time of year to be inspired by the natural world. In fact, traditional summer solstice festivals in Scandinavia usually involve creating decorations and attire using real plants. Check out these instructions on how to make your own flower crown (with real or fake flowers), or watch our step-by-step video on how to make a sun catcher for your window.
Thursday, June 17 – Outdoor Activities
Longer days mean more time to spend outside. Traditional summer solstice festivals usually involve outdoor activities that take advantage of the extended daylight hours. In Fairbanks Alaska, the sun never sets during the solstice, and their Midnight Sun festival culminates in a baseball game that lasts through midnight. While you may not be able to play a midnight baseball game here in Northwest Florida, you can still take advantage of our beautiful summer days and nights with a hike on your favorite trail, or a bonfire with friends.
Friday, June 18 – Weekend Farmer’s Markets
Celebrate the summer solstice weekend by supporting local growers and makers at some of Pensacola’s best open markets. Stroll down Market Luther King Jr. Plaza right in the middle of Downtown Pensacola and enjoy local produce, handmade goods, art, and music. Festivals run on both Saturday and Sunday!
Saturday, June 19 – Pick Your Own Berries
Summer is a great time for fresh fruits and vegetables. What better way to celebrate the summer solstice than enjoying local produce, and spending time outdoors? Check out some of our favorite pick-your-own spots here in Northwest Florida.
Sunday, June 20 – Stonehenge Livestream Events
Happy Summer Solstice! How are you celebrating the solstice today? If you don’t get a chance to be outside, check out a livestream from the Stonehenge Summer Solstice Festival in Wiltshire England and watch both sunrise and sunset from the iconic monument.