The Ancient Egyptians, for example, couldn\u2019t wait until the summer solstice rolled around because it was a sign that Sirius was on its way. When Sirius, the brightest star, showed up in the sky, it meant the Nile was due to flood and the new year was upon them.<\/span><\/p>\n Similarly, Northern European pagans celebrated agriculture and the onset of the harvesting season. On the brightest day of the year, they built massive bonfires, which were symbolic of light overpowering darkness during the summer solstice. Supposedly, some would risk catching themselves on fire as they jumped through flames to predict the height of the season\u2019s crops.<\/span><\/p>\n Summer solstice was a big deal to the Mayans and Aztecs too, but mystery surrounds the details of their celebrations. However, we do know that these fascinating pre-Columbian cultures built their temples according to the shadows cast during the summer and winter solstices. \n<\/div>\n While many of us in modern day have since stowed our sun medallions and veered away from spiritual rituals, some cities continue to celebrate the sunniest day of the year with parades, festivals, and concerts. Santa Barbara<\/a>, for example, will forge the way with its annual solstice parade, while New York City is hosting Solstice in Times Square: Athleta Mind Over Madness Yoga. Boston<\/a>\u00a0is getting down and dirty with the Boston Sprint and Super Race, and Vancouver<\/a>\u00a0will be celebrating the 27th Annual Rio Tinto Alcan Dragon Boat Festival.<\/span><\/p>\n For more info on these events and ideas about some of the best ways to celebrate the first day of summer this year, keep an eye on our upcoming summer solstice 2015 series.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n 2015 Summer Solstice Events Around the World:<\/strong><\/p>\n -The Dodgers are taking on the Giants at Dodger Stadium, while Make Music LA takes over the streets and parks. Kick start the Los Angeles<\/a>\u00a0solstice\u00a0by watching the sunrise at the Hollywood Bowl Overlook and then catching the Underworld concert later in the evening.<\/p>\n –Anchorage<\/a>\u00a0is hosting the Mayor\u2019s Midnight Sun Marathon & Half Marathon, along with the annual Downtown Summer Solstice Festival and Hero Games. At the end of the day, make the trek up Flattop Mountain and watch the late-night sunset at 11:42 p.m.<\/p>\n -The much-anticipated Summer Solstice Celebration is back for another year in Santa Barbara<\/a>. After the parade, relish the extended daylight with cocktails and a view of the sun setting over the harbor.<\/p>\n
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