Summer we see you. June 21 is the first official day of summer and is also the summer solstice, which means the sun is out for the longest amount of daylight for the entire year (in Latin, “sol” means sun and “stice” comes from the verb sistere, meaning to stand still). Here are some magical ways to celebrate the summer solstice:
June 21
Solstice Run
The Watershed Institute, Pennington
Choose from the annual 5K, 10K or 15K Solstice Run, which takes you through the trails of the Watershed Reserve, and includes free snacks for all runners after the race. Relax after the race under the tent at the post-race party, where you’ll be treated to music, beer, beverages and pizza for sale. Grab some s’mores at no charge by the firepit before the sun sets.
Summer Solstice Sound Bath
Sanctuary Yoga & Meditation, Toms River
Listen to the sounds of crystal bowls, which are soothing and healing and release your intentions for the season ahead. Pull an oracle card for extra inspiration.
Summer Solstice 10th Anniversary Celebration
Water Star Grille, The Reeds at Shelter Haven, Stone Harbor
Kick off the summer, and the anniversary party, with live music on the bay from the Megan Knight Band plus drink specials, free treats, Permanent Bracelet pop-up with giveaways, raffles, a photo booth, and more. Dress in all white!
Summer Solstice Soiree
DollyMoo, Montclair
Come for sweet treats and sparking summer cocktails, plus exclusive deals and giveaways. There will be henna, summer solstice mini tarot readings, and Haus of Highlights Braid Bar.
Solstice in Times Square
Times Square, Manhattan, NY
Mind Over Madness Yoga returns for an all-day event, from sunrise to sunset, where yogis of any level can sign up for one of seven free yoga classes taking place throughout the day on the Broadway pedestrian plazas. You will set up your mat on the street amidst the hustle and bustle of New York and try to find calmness among the chaos. There will be themed vendors set up along the streets as well. Attend in person, or sign up to join virtually.
Make Music Englewood
Englewood Public Library and Veterans Park, Englewood
As part of International Make Music Day, the free outdoor performances will be by Dan Sheehan’s The Seas Are Rising: Stories of a Climate in Crisis, Kurley Skeletons, Born 2 Blend, The Crescent Kings, Alexey Forest, Deux Chez, Metamorphic Winds, Kensemble, Maron/Theberge/Carter/Hawkins and more.
Downtown Farmers Market
Sloan Street Parking Lot, South Orange
Every Wednesday, get your Jersey Fresh produce, eggs, baked goods, meats, pickles, olives, ice pops, apple cider, soul food, specialty items and more. Visit the market weekly for special offers, pop-up events and new vendors.
Yappy Hour
The Fox & Falcon, South Orange
The GOAT by David Burke, Union Beach
Red Horse by David Burke, Rumson
You and your four-legged friends can enjoy the warm summer evening, sitting outside on the patio while having dinner at one of Chef David Burke’s Monmouth County restaurants.
Tribute to Musical Cornucopia
Main Street and Grove Street, Ridgefield Park
The Village of Ridgefield Park’s Concerts-Arts-Culture will hold its first free summer concert, with Tribute to Musical Cornucopia, an authentic Big Band playing the music of the Big Band Jazz Era. The music they play is from the “Great American Songbook” with songs from musical theater, movies, ballads, dance bands and jazz bands from the 1940s to the 1980s.
Woodbridge Wednesdays Summer Concerts
Parker Press Park, Woodbridge
Bring a blanket or chair and listen to Martin Barre of Jethro Tull entertain the crowd.
June 21 – 25
KPMG Women’s PGA Championship
Baltusrol Golf Club, Springfield
The best female golfers in the world are heading here to compete in the 9th edition of the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship — one of five Major championships on the LPGA Tour and one of the most prestigious events in women’s golf.
L.E.A.D. Fest Carnival
Overpeck County Park, Ridgefield Park
There are tons of rides and games for the kids, plus entertainment for everyone, so watch the circus or head to the midway under the stars.
June 23
Summer Solstice Music Festival
Haddon Avenue, Haddon Twp.
This year’s event will feature music, food trucks, live entertainment, a beer garden and a kid zone. Live music will be the focus of the event, with performances scheduled by Ndichu, John Torres Band, HaZy Cosmic Jive, Brown Sugar and Random Acts of Soul.
Sussex County Sunset Yoga
Sunset View Farm, Lafayette
A gentle yoga class open to all levels will be held around sunset. Snack on a local baked good after.
June 24
International Day of Yoga
Auten Road Intermediate School, Hillsborough
There will be free yoga classes, breathing exercises and meditation.
Don’t forget to check your local yoga studio, as many offer in-studio or outdoor classes (think a park or beach), and usually at sunrise or sunset, to grab the energy of the long day.
Read More:
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