The longest day of the year ’round these parts — read: the Northern Hemisphere — will be Sunday, June 21 in 2026, and summer-loving revelers around Los Angeles are conjuring colorful ways to celebrate.
Where will you go to find that sunny solstice spirit or, if you’re in an astronomical mood, a deeper dive into what makes the longest day of the year such a cosmic event?
The Main Street Summer Soulstice is a free festival happening on summer’s eve. Head to Santa Monica on June 20 for “live music, interactive pop-ups, kid activities,” and lots more around the easy-to-stroll area.
A VCA Pet Zone, the Route 66 Roadhouse Beer Garden, and plenty of uplifting diversions will fill the outdoor area. Note that there is a ticket fee to enter the beer garden.
The Litha Ball will magically materialize at the enchanting Witch’s Cottage in North Hollywood on June 20, with masquerade merriment and other ensorcelled touches adding swirl and sparkle.
Salt and Straw will “Make It a Double” on June 21, which means that ice cream lovers can turn any single scoop order into a double delight.
A Spirits Summer Solstice Dance with Richie Hawtin and John Gerrard will shimmer at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art June 21, a program that is part of the museum’s Third Weekends at LACMA series.
The Fowler Museum at UCLA’s Under the Sun: Solstice Soundscape with Film, Poetry & Music is set to shimmer on the evening of the solstice; entry is free but be sure to RSVP.
And up, up, up the hill at Griffith Observatory?
You’re invited to join a free Golden Hour: Summer Solstice event on June 21. Make for the landmark’s West Terrace at 7 p.m. for “beautiful views and live music accompaniment”; look for bonus content celebrating all things solstice on the observatory’s social pages.