7 ways to celebrate the summer solstice in New Hampshire
Discover the best ways to celebrate the longest day of the year in New Hampshire.
No one loves the Summer Solstice more than a Granite Stater. After our endless, cold winters, the beginning of warm days and late sunsets are a cause for celebration. Here are a few ways to welcome the longest day of the year in New Hampshire — this year starting Thursday, June 20, at 4:50 p.m.
Summer Solstice Guided Wine Tasting
Friday, June 21, 7:00–9:00 p.m., The Livery at Sunapee Harbor, 58 Main Street, Sunapee Harbor.
Ring in the new season learning about and tasting six wines from around the world. A wine presenter will offer insight into the wine, winemaking, and vineyards. Each wine will be accompanied by a paired cheese and charcuterie followed by dessert. Participants must be 21 or older. Tickets must be purchased ahead of time and cost $60. The price includes the guided tasting, food, dessert, and a souvenir wine glass.
Summer Solstice (Midsummer)
America’s Stonehenge, June 20, 2–5 p.m., 105 Haverhill Road, Salem.
The park will be open from sunrise to sunset. The solstice ritual will officially begin at 2 with a guided procession to the gate of ancient stonework to a special gathering place where the ritual will begin. There is an $8 suggested donation for the ceremony in addition to the park’s general admission — $18 for adults, $16 for age 65 plus, $10 for ages 4-12, free for ages three and under.
“Harvey” at M&D Playhouse
Eastern Slope Inn 2760 White Mountain Highway, North Conway.
June 20, 7:30 p.m. is the opening night of “Harvey,” the Pulitzer-prize-winning play by Mary Chase. The titular character is a giant bunny (or Pooka) who’s the bestie of the gentle Elwood P. Dowd, the only person who can actually see Harvey. The summer solstice feels like the perfect time to see this magical production. The play runs through July 7. All seats are $29 and can be purchased here.
Transforming as a Community: Conscious Connection at the Summer Solstice
Thursday, June 20, 5–7 p.m. Alnoba, 1848 Barn, 199 Cottage Road, Kensington.
Spiritual Consultant Kristin Bredimus returns to Alnoba to guide visitors to healing as a community on the longest day of the year. Activities will include foraging for wild herbs, altar building, and a fire ceremony. Doors open at 4 p.m. for visitors to explore the grounds. Tickets are $35 and can be purchased here.
Summer Solstice Full Moon Circle
Thursday, June 20, 5–7:30 p.m., Mountain Kula Yoga, 3358 White Mountain Highway, Conway.
This is a celebration of the Sun on its longest day and shortest night of dark under a Strawberry Moon. Activities include setting new intentions, oracle card messages, sipping on hot chocolate, sun salutations, breathwork, meditation, and deep relaxation with yoga, closing with fresh strawberries and community oracle card share. Participants are asked to bring a special flower as an offering in the creation of a community altar. Mats, blankets, and bolsters will be provided. The event costs $40 and registration ahead of time is suggested.
Summer Solstice: Summer Flow & Henna
Thursday, June 20, 5:30–8:00 p.m., Greeley Park, Concord Street, Nashua.
Say hello to summer and celebrate the solstice, also known as Litha, with an all-levels summer flow yoga class from Banyan Tree Yoga and henna from Wicked Good Henna. It’s $55 for both yoga and henna, $20 for yoga only, and $35 for henna only. For tickets, contact Banyan Tree Yoga.
Summer Solstice Dance Fusion
Aloha Keene, 83 Court St., Keene, Saturday, June 22, 6:30–8 p.m.
This event includes Kundalini Yoga, Five Rhythms Freestyle Ecstatic Movement, and a Gong Sound Bath. Admission is $15. For more information, contact Aloha Keene.