“And so with the sunshine and the great bursts of leaves… I had that familiar conviction that life was beginning over again with the summer.” – F. Scott Fitzgerald

Get ready to turn up the sunshine—Summer officially begins on Saturday, June 21! Known as the Summer Solstice, this day marks the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere and the perfect excuse to soak up the beauty, warmth, and freedom of the season.

Whether you’re planning a road trip, lounging with a good book, or simply basking in golden-hour vibes, the solstice is your seasonal reminder to live life fully, boldly, and joyfully.

🌞 A Little Summer Solstice History

Here are three historical facts that give this sunny day even more meaning:

1. Ancient Sun Celebrations:
The word solstice comes from Latin—sol (sun) and sistere (to stand still). Ancient civilizations like the Egyptians, Aztecs, and Druids honored the sun’s power with rituals and festivals. Even today, crowds gather at Stonehenge to watch the solstice sunrise line up with the ancient stones.

2. Scandinavian Midsummer Magic:
In Sweden and Finland, Midsummer is a major holiday with flower crowns, maypoles, and bonfires. These traditions trace back to pagan rites that celebrated light, fertility, and the abundance of summer.

3. A U.S. Tradition Takes Root:
While solstice celebrations were once rare in the U.S., the Summer Solstice Parade in Santa Barbara, California—first held in 1974—has grown into one of the largest community arts festivals in the nation.

📚 3 Great Summer Resources

1. National Park Service – Find Your Park
Plan the perfect summer adventure with this interactive guide to national parks and scenic spots across the country.

2. CDC – Summer Health & Safety Tips
Stay safe and healthy with practical tips on sun protection, hydration, and outdoor safety—especially helpful for those of us thriving after 40.

3. Farmers' Almanac – Summer Solstice Guide
Dive deeper into solstice history, sunrise times, weather predictions, and folklore from a trusted seasonal source.

🎉 3 Fun Activities to Kick Off Summer

1. Host a Sunset Dinner Party:
Celebrate the longest day of the year with an outdoor meal, soft lighting, fresh summer dishes, and a playlist that matches the mood.

2. Dive into a Water-Inspired Workout:
From kayaking to water aerobics, swimming to paddleboarding—cool, low-impact fitness can be as fun as it is refreshing.

3. Create a Summer Bucket List or Journal:
Write down everything you want to do this summer—big and small. Document it with photos, thoughts, and experiences for memories that last well past Labor Day.

✨ Fortify This

At Club Fortified, we celebrate every season—but there’s something extra special about summer. June 21st is more than just a date on the calendar—it’s a turning point into longer days, warmer nights, and the joy of simply living. Whether you're dancing at a festival, exploring a hidden gem, or enjoying a quiet cup of coffee in the morning sun, this is your season to shine.

So let the light in, set new intentions, and remember: Life gets better—and summer proves it. 🌻

🟡 Stay inspired all season long!
Below, Subscribe to the Fortified Living Newsletter for exclusive blog posts, giveaways, lifestyle tips, and more ways to thrive this summer.