June 21, 2010

First Day of Summer—Northern Hemisphere

In the north, this is the longest day of the year. It used to be called Midsummer Day, and ancient European celebrations centered around fire: bonfires lit in rings and parades with torches.

White Nights Festival – Russia

Centered on the city of St. Petersburg (AKA Petrograd, Leningrad, and Piter), this is a several-month-long arts festival that features classical opera, ballet, and music performances and other events.

The Festival is called “White Nights” because it is held in midsummer, when the sun barely sets and the skies hardly darken. The most popular event is called Scarlet Sails. This fireworks production celebrates the end of the school year in June. Enjoy!

I am busy making every day special by taking a trip through California, Oregon, and Washington.

The daily posts will be minimal during my trip. Happy summer to everyone in the Northern Hemisphere!