The Summer Solstice, otherwise known as Midsummer, isn’t only the first day of summer, but it’s also the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere.

The Summer Solstice is celebrated in almost every country in the world, and with each culture comes a unique set of traditions and festivities. The Swedish dance around maypoles wearing flower crowns and in Latvia they celebrate the first day of Summer by leaping over bonfires, and eating lots and lots of cheese. 

But in Scotts Valley California, there is no better way to ring in our favorite season than with a dreamy, intimate garden party. 

The summer solstice will occur on Tuesday, June 21st at2:14 PM in California this year, which means it's about time to start planning your Summer Solstice garden party! 

Find the perfect location 

The Summer Solstice is all about honouring the sun and nature, as it is the longest day of the year- so having your party outside is essential. If you don’t have a garden, think patio, beach, or even a rooftop or large balcony if you live in an urban setting. 

Set the vibe 

Now that you’ve chosen your dreamy location that’s immersed in as much nature as possible, it’s time to start setting the vibe of your party. If you’re lucky and already have a naturally stunning setting, like a gorgeous garden with a medley of blooms, then a lot of your work is already done for you. 

If you’re in an urban setting, we want one word for you: foliage! If real flowers and plants aren’t practical for you then opt for faux ones. These Real Touch faux flowerslook so real you cannot tell the difference!   

 

 

Think fairy lights andlots of candles in an assortment of sizes, shapes, and colors.When the sun goes down, you’ll want your space to be dimly lit to sustain the cozy and intimate vibe throughout the night. 

 

 

In the case of Summer Solstice, let the natural beauty of your setting be the star of the show rather than outdoing it with loud decorations. Less is always more when you’re celebrating nature. 

   

Serve something light 

When it comes to the food, you have options. You could do a dinner party with a full meal, or you could serve an assortment of light appetizers. Whichever route you choose, make sure to use light, seasonal ingredients. Think fruits, vegetables, and fish. Try to stay away from carb-heavy items like grilled meats and potatoes. It’s an intimate affair, so you don’t want your guests to feel uncomfortably full! 

 

 

Try this chia pudding recipe from The Forest Feast cookbook for a nourishing appetizer or healthy dessert.

1/2 c chia seeds​​​​​​​​
2 c almond milk ​​​​​​​​
1 T agave (or maple syrup)​​​​​​​​
a couple pinches of cinnamon​​​​​​​​
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Add the chia seeds to the milk and stir as you pour them into a bowl or jar. (If not it clumps easily.) Stir if in a bowl or shake if in a jar.​​​​​​​​
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Once everything is combined, chill for at least 4 hours until it thickens and has the consistency of pudding. Top with fruit and nuts. Enjoy cold!​​​​​​​​

 

Add a fruity cocktail to the mix

It isn’t a party without a signature cocktail- and for the Summer Solstice, it only makes sense to do something fruity and refreshing. Mixing drinks is extremely time-consuming and takes away from your time to connect with your guests- so unless you’re planning on hiring a bartender for the event, we recommend the pre-made Craft Camp Cocktails. 

 

 

All you have to do is let the alcohol infuse for up to 12 hours before your party, and you’re all set for delicious, labour-free cocktails that your guests will love. 

  

Plan something spiritual 

During the Summer solstice, the Sun reaches its highest point in the sky, giving us the longest day of the year. So the Summer Solstice is a beautiful reminder for us to celebrate the nourishing light of the sun and the light within each of us. 

For centuries, people have recognized the power of aligning with the phases of the sun by honoring both Equinoxes and Solstices through ceremony and ritual. For your Summer Solstice party, consider planning a spiritual moment, like some gentle yoga, meditation, sharing circle, or taro reading session. If your guests leave feeling more zen and mindful than when they arrived, then you have succeeded at throwing the ultimate Summer Solstice party.