Summer Solstice 2025 in Canada: When Summer Starts and What It Means

In Canada, the summer solstice arrives on Friday, June 20, 2025, at 10:45 p.m. EDT, marking the official start of astronomical summer in the Northern Hemisphere. This date brings the longest day and shortest night of the year, a phenomenon caused by the Earth’s 23.5-degree axial tilt toward the Sun.

What Is the Summer Solstice?

The word solstice comes from the Latin solstitium, meaning “Sun stands still.” On this day, the Sun reaches its northernmost point in the sky, hovering directly over the Tropic of Cancer. From our perspective in Canada, the Sun appears to pause in its path before slowly moving southward again.

This solstice occurs at the same exact moment worldwide, but the local time varies by time zone. In Ottawa, for example, the sun will rise at 5:15 a.m. and set at 8:55 p.m., giving Canadians nearly 17 hours of daylight.

Why Does the Solstice Matter?

Though we call it the “first day of summer,” many cultures refer to it as Midsummer—a nod to ancient calendars that viewed the solstice as the height of the summer season. Either way, the day holds deep seasonal and cultural significance. In Canada, it’s often associated with festivals, outdoor activities, and the welcome return of long, sun-filled evenings.

But here’s the twist—after June 20, days start to get shorter again. Slowly at first, then more noticeably by late July. That’s because while the solstice brings maximum daylight, it also marks the turning point toward fall.

Summer Solstice vs. Meteorological Summer

Meteorological summer—used by scientists and weather services—starts on June 1 and ends August 31. It’s based on temperature patterns rather than Earth’s orbit. But for stargazers, sun-watchers, and tradition lovers, the astronomical summer solstice is the real seasonal landmark.

Fun Canadian Fact

Toronto sees its longest day stretch over 15 hours and 26 minutes, while further north, places like Whitehorse and Yellowknife can experience nearly 24 hours of daylight around this time—the Midnight Sun effect.

Cultural Celebrations Around the World

Even though Canada doesn’t have a widespread solstice holiday, many countries do. Think of Stonehenge gatherings in the UK, Midsummer bonfires in Sweden, or sunrise ceremonies by Indigenous communities in North America, including Canada. These traditions often honour fertility, light, and nature’s cycles.

So What Should You Do on June 20?

Soak up the sun. Take a late evening walk. Reflect on the changing seasons. And maybe keep an eye on your shadow—at noon, it will be the shortest it gets all year.

 How do you plan to make the most of Canada’s longest day of the year?

More…

• https://www.farmersalmanac.com/summer-solstice-first-day-summer
• https://pt.sunrisesunsettime.org/america-norte/canada/longest-day.htm
• https://www.timeanddate.com/calendar/summer-solstice.html