Summer Solstice is the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. It falls on June 21 and is celebrated with ancient rituals of lighting bonfires and traditional dancing, as well as modern adaptations that include extended partying and getting naked. Here are four destinations where you can honor the earth and sun, femininity and fertility in a variety of Summer solstice celebrations.

Stonehenge, England

Possibly the longest-running celebration of summer solstice in history takes place at the mysterious prehistoric monument of Stonehenge, which is believed to date back to around 2500 BC. The exact purpose of the carefully arranged monoliths is unknown, but they are aligned so that from viewing inside the stone circle, the solstice sunrise appears over the Heel Stone. Last year an estimated 37,000 druids, modern-day pagans and party-goers flocked to Stonehenge to celebrate the sun on summer solstice.

Machu Picchu, Peru

The ancient Inca city of Machu Picchu is a mesmerizing site at any time, but there is said to be special energy there during Peru’s winter solstice (summer solstice above the equator). The masterful stone architecture of the Inca’s sacred city was used for astronomical observation and ceremonial functions. One semi-circular building called the Temple of the Sun was built to have a special ceremonial feature. On the solstice, the sun shines directly through the main trapezoidal window directly onto a large granite stone within the building. While the exact purpose is lost to history, it was clearly an intentional and meaningful solstice celebration.

Reykjavik, Iceland

For up to two months before and after summer solstice, the most northern climes experience “Midnight Sun” when the sun sets after midnight and the skies never get entirely dark before the sun rises again in the wee hours. In Reykjavik, the sun doesn’t set at all for three days over summer solstice. Reykjavik is known for its up-and-coming culinary scene and pulsing nightlife, so during summer solstice join the Norse celebration of bounty by partying at bars and dance venues until 5am or attend the second annual Secret Solstice Music Festival with three days of  live music at the Laugardalur (hot springs) recreational area.

Seattle, Washington

The funky neighborhood of Fremont in Seattle celebrates solstice in its own colorful style with the historic Fremont Solstice Parade produced by the non-profit Fremont Arts Council. The parade of floats, marching bands, assorted street performers – and anyone who registers – is preceded by the infamous Solstice Cyclists – 1,500 bike riders wearing nothing but body paint celebrating their inner rebel. In addition to the parade, festival events include an Art Car Blowout, a dog parade (think dachshunds in wiener costumes), food trucks, a beer garden, a craft market, art installations and a music festival on multiple stages. Fremont invites everyone to “get their freak on” during summer solstice!

What will you do on the longest day of the year? For more inspiration or to plan your adventure, contact the vacation advisors at Covington Travel.