Not only is it the summer solstice in the Northern Hemisphere on June 21, 2014, it also happens to be the first day of summer and the first time the longest day of the year has been on a Saturday since 2003.
The day, which marks the time at which the sun is at its northernmost point in the sky, according to IBTimes.com, will offer up approximately 16 hours of sunlight.
And while the summer solstice is known for its extraordinary celebrations at places like Stonehenge, we think this elongated weekend day calls for some personal merriment as well. Whatever you do, take the opportunity to make your June 21 special — after all, it is the official kick-off to summer!
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Even if it's just you eating a hot dog solo in a park, it's so worth it.
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Balls, Frisbees, what have you — use those muscles you haven't exercised in a year.
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Romantic comedy cliche? Yes. Still totally worth it? Absolutely.
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Or gelato. Or Popsicles. Or ice cream sandwiches. And don't fuss about the drips.
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Or at least, get your feet wet.
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Even if all that means is five minutes of complete, utter, delicious silence.
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We're really not advocating for spending the whole day inside, but just in case it's raining, here's an amazing list of options.
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There's really no reason not to.
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Stop just looking at the kids (even if they're your kids) and join in. Alternatively, hammocks. Hammocks swing really nicely.
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You know, like nobody's watching.
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You can find it anywhere — galleries, shops, outdoors.
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If you don't have a yard, pots work just as well (and frankly, are easier to manage).
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Preferably outdoors.
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And ride the way you did when you were a kid. Except, none of that "no hands" business.
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But totally turn it into a scene out of a movie, with sponge throwing and everything.
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If only for the relaxing feeling.
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And lookee here — we have a list for that too!
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At sunset, if possible.
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That dive bar down the street has open mike tonight, doesn't it?
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There's plenty of drive-ins and outdoor screens, but you can also just take your iPad outside once the sun goes down.
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Once that sun sets, take a moment to marvel at what's up there.
