June 20th marks the longest day of the year for the Northern Hemisphere. And it also is the official beginning of summer. This day is one of the most celebrated days around the world. It is most commonly known as the Summer Solstice.
“While the Spring Equinox begins this journey and represents new beginnings, the Summer Solstice represents the next step of this divine rhythm. Always occurring at the start of the Cancer Sun Season, the Summer Solstice reminds us to turn inward and find the nourishment needed to grow and evolve.“
Many Native American tribes perform ceremonies focused on summer solstice. The Sun Dance is believed to have originated with the Lakota tribe. It is a ceremony that lasted 28 days, with a final four to eight days of intense festivity.