Today marks the first day of summer and is historically known as the longest day and shortest night of the year.  Summer Soltice is a latin derived phrase meaning “sun” and “to stand still”.  As the days lengthen, the sun rises higher and higher until it seems to stand still in the sky.  As a major celestial event, the northern hemisphere celebrates in June while the southern hemisphere has their longest summer day in December.

In early celebrations, awed by the great power of the sun, civilizations have for centuries celebrated the first day of summer otherwise known as Summer Solstice, Midsummer, St. John’s Day, or the Wiccan Litha.

The Celts & Slavs celebrated the first day of summer with dancing & bonfires to help increase the sun’s energy.  The Chinese marked the day by honoring Li, the Chinese Goddess of Light.  Perhaps the most longest modern ties with Summer Solstice were the Druids’ celebration of the day as the “wedding of Heaven and Earth”, resulting in the present day belief of a “lucky” wedding in June.

Today, the day continues to be celebrated around the world.  Most notably in England at Stonehenge and Avebury.  Thousands gather to welcome the sunrise on the Summer  Soltice.

Now that we got the history out of the way, bring on the flip flops, beach towels and hats.  We’ve all awaited this day to come and can celebrate accordingly.  Since you’ll be spending a lot of time in a swimsuit this summer, you could use some pocket alternatives.  How about a bottle opener right on your flip flop strap or hat?  Genious.