Fact 1: The Summer Solstice
June 21 is scientifically significant because it often marks the Summer Solstice in the Northern Hemisphere. The Summer Solstice is the day with the most daylight hours, typically receiving 16 to 18 hours of sunlight. It's the height of summer and the longest day of the year. The term 'solstice' comes from the Latin word 'solstitium' which means 'sun standing still'.
Fact 2: The Start of Different Seasons
While June 21 often brings the Summer Solstice in the Northern Hemisphere, it's the Winter Solstice for those in the Southern Hemisphere. This means that while North Americans and Europeans are enjoying the longest day of their year, Australians and South Americans are experiencing their shortest.
Fact 3: World Music Day
June 21 is also the official World Music Day. This event originated in France in 1982 and has since grown into an international phenomenon, celebrated in over 120 countries. On this day, musicians are encouraged to perform in the streets and parks to bring their music to the masses.
Fact 4: World Humanist Day
An often-overlooked fact about June 21 is that it’s World Humanist Day. This is a day that aims to promote the understanding and appreciation of Humanism as a philosophical life stance that upholds the value and agency of every individual.
Fact 5: The Start of Cancer Astrological Sign
For those interested in astrology, June 21 often marks the starting date of the zodiac sign Cancer. People born on or after this date through July 22 are considered to be born under this sign. Cancers are usually regarded as intuitive, emotional, and deeply family and home-oriented.
Fact 6: Leonardo da Vinci's Connection
Intriguingly, Leonardo da Vinci used June 21 to perfect his designs for mirrors. Using this day's unique sunlight, he created mirrors that reflected sunlight more efficiently, introducing major changes to mirror-making.
Fact 7: International Yoga Day
Another fascinating fact about this day is the celebration of International Yoga Day. Established by the United Nations in 2015, people all across the globe participate in mass yoga sessions on June 21 to raise awareness about the benefits of practicing yoga.
Fact 8: National Selfie Day
Need inspiration for taking a selfie? June 21 is officially known as National Selfie Day in the United States. This fun 'holiday' encourages people to take creative and unique selfies and share them on social media.
Fact 9: A Day of Native American Heritage
In some parts of the United States, June 21 is observed as National Indigenous Peoples Day. This day acknowledges and celebrates the rich cultures, histories, and contributions of Native Americans.
Fact 10: Go Skateboarding Day
Annually on June 21, Go Skateboarding Day is celebrated worldwide. This is a day when skateboarding enthusiasts take to the streets to enjoy this thrilling sport.
Fact 11: A Popular Day for Festivals
Many cultures have chosen the longest day of the year to host celebrations and festivals. Among some of the most famous are the Summer Solstice Music Festival in Alberta, Canada and the Secret Solstice Music Festival in Reykjavik, Iceland.
Fact 12: Daylight Appreciation Day
June 21 is also Daylight Appreciation Day, a day to appreciate the extended daylight hours that accompany the summer season in many parts of the world.
Fact 13: Unique Solar Phenomena
In certain locations, June 21 is the day to witness unique solar phenomena. For instance, in places like Stonehenge, the sun perfectly aligns with certain stones, something that only happens annually on the Summer Solstice.
Fact 14: It's Peak Bloom for Some Roses
If you are a fan of roses, you'd be delighted to know that in many parts of the world, June 21 is around the time when roses reach their peak bloom, filling gardens with vibrant colors and sweet aromas.
Fact 15: Birth Date of Famous Celebrities
Numerous well-known figures were born on June 21, including Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, creator of the television show "Family Guy" Seth MacFarlane, and musician Lana Del Rey.
Fact 16: Strawberry Moon
The full moon in June is often called the Strawberry Moon because this is when strawberries are harvested. Coincidentally, it often falls around June 21.
Fact 17: It's a Polar Day in Arctic
On June 21, those living within the Arctic Circle experience the magic of 'Midnight Sun' in which the sun does not set at all, making it a 24-hour daylight day.
Fact 18: Celebrating Fête de la Musique
In France, a significant event on June 21 is the Fête de la Musique, a day-long public music festival where both amateur and professional musicians perform for free.
Fact 19: Saharan Dust Travels to Amazon
One remarkable natural phenomenon in June is the journey of Saharan dust across the Atlantic Ocean to replenish nutrients in Amazonian soils. Research has revealed that the dust usually starts its journey around June 21.
Fact 20: An Important Day in History
June 21 has held many noteworthy historic events, including the signing of France and England's Treaty of Bretigny in 1360, ending the first phase of the Hundred Years' War. It's also the day when the U.S. Constitution became effectual after New Hampshire became the ninth state to ratify it in 1788.