Each year, as spring folds into summer, the sun reaches its highest point in the sky- and we're gifted the longest day of the year. The summer solstice is a moment to pause, soak in the light, and honor the rhythms of the Earth.
At Tanglewood Hollow, we love marking this turning point with beauty, nature, and creativity. One of our favorite ways? Making floral summer solstice lanterns- a simple craft that captures the season's light and color, while creating a gentle ritual for welcoming summer.
In this Entry:
- What is the Summer Solstice?
- Solstice Traditions Through Time
- How to Make a Floral Summer Solstice Lantern
- Simple Ways to Honor the Longest Day
WHAT IS THE SUMMER SOLSTICE?
The summer solstice typically falls around June 20-21 in the Northern Hemisphere and marks the day when the Earth's northern pole is tilted most directly toward the sun. This creates more daylight hours than any other day of the year.
After the solstice, daylight begins to slowly wane- a subtle reminder that every peak is followed by a quiet shift. The solstice is a beautiful invitation to be present, grateful, and tuned in to nature's steady turning.
SOLSTICE TRADITIONS THROUGH TIME
For thousands of years, communities around the world have celebrated the solstice as a time of light, life, and transformation.
- In ancient times, druids and early farmers gathered at stone circles and sacred sites to honor the sun's power.
- In Scandinavia, Midsummer celebrations include flower crowns, bonfires, and dancing.
- Many Indigenous cultures observe this time as a spiritual moment of balance and connection with the Earth.
While the customs differ, the heart of solstice celebration is the same: honoring light, growth, and the Earth's turning wheel.
Related: Summer Solstice Curriculum of Curiosity
HOW TO MAKE A FLORAL SUMMER SOLSTICE LANTERN
Celebrate the light with a glowing lantern made from nature's own treasures.
You'll need:
- A clean glass jar (smooth sides work best)
- Pressed flowers or leaves
- Mod Podge or other clear-drying glue
- A paintbrush
- Optional: thick-gauge wire for a handle
Directions:
1. Wash and dry your jar, removing all labels.
2. Brush a layer of Mod Podge over the outside surface.
3. Gently press your flowers onto the glue. Press them flat with your fingers or a dry brush.
4. Let dry completely.
5. Apply another layer of Mod Podge over the top to seal the flowers in place.
6. If you'd like to create a handle, wrap thick wire around the mouth of the jar and form a loop for carrying or hanging.
Place a battery-powered tea light inside and enjoy the soft glow of your handmade lantern as the sun sets.
SIMPLE WAYS TO HONOR THE LONGEST DAY
Even the smallest rituals can help mark the solstice in a meaningful way:
- Weave a flower crown
with wildflowers or herbs
- Light a candle
at sunset in gratitude for the sun
- Sing or share stories
around a fire or lantern glow
- Journal about what you're growing- inside and out
- Spend the whole day outdoors
watching the light shift from morning to golden hour
- Make a meal with summer's freshest ingredients
like berries, greens, and herbs
Whether your celebration is big or small, let it reflect the warmth, brightness, and energy of this turning point.
