Mark your calendar — June 20 is the summer solstice, the longest day of the year, and the official start of summer in the Northern Hemisphere.
In San Diego, it’s the perfect excuse to embrace the outdoors, explore our beautiful local parks, and take in warm evenings filled with stars, music, and delicious seasonal flavors. Whether you’re into stargazing, birdwatching, sipping wine, or dancing by the sea — there’s a solstice celebration for everyone this year.
Here’s your guide to making the most of the summer solstice in San Diego:
Connect with Nature
As the Earth tilts toward the sun, the season comes alive with color and sound:
- Birdwatchers, keep your eyes out for hooded orioles, black-headed grosbeaks, and beach migrants like ruddy turnstones.
- Butterfly lovers will spot monarchs, swallowtails, painted ladies, and more fluttering through blooming gardens.
- Dragonflies and frogs take over local ponds, and nestlings can be seen (and heard) in trees and shrubs all over town.
Warm days are also a great excuse to explore San Diego’s nearby mountains. Palomar Mountain, Cuyamaca Rancho, and Cleveland National Forest are bursting with wildflowers right now. And if you can, set aside some time to simply sit quietly — you may be surprised at what nature reveals.
As the sun sets, the real show begins. The Milky Way lights up the night sky during the summer months, best viewed from dark-sky locations away from city lights. A drive out east can reward you with breathtaking stargazing opportunities — don’t miss the chance to experience it.
Celebrate in Style: Summer Solstice Events in San Diego
1. Summer Solstice Soirée at Powerhouse Park, Del Mar
Thursday, June 12 | 5 - 8 pm
Kick off the season with this beloved beachside culinary celebration in Del Mar Village. Enjoy elevated bites from award-winning local restaurants, craft cocktails, wine, beer, and live music — all with an oceanfront view. The popular Rancher Hat Bar and a sunset toast round out this one-of-a-kind event.
Note: VIP tickets are already sold out, but general admission is still available. This is a 21+ event.
2. Summer Solstice Celebration at Rancho Bernardo Inn
Friday, June 20 | 11:30 am - 8:00 pm
Unwind on the beautiful Buena Vista Terrace at Rancho Bernardo Inn with chilled Frosé, handcrafted cocktails, and curated small bites. Soft acoustic sounds set the mood for this relaxed, elegant daytime party that carries into a sunset toast celebration.
No reservations required. Just show up and enjoy!
More details: Rancho Bernardo Inn Events
3. Carruth Cellars Summer Solstice Barrel Tasting Party
Saturday, June 21 | Liberty Station
For wine lovers, Carruth Cellars hosts its second annual barrel tasting party at Liberty Station. Sample 12 wines straight from the barrel, enjoy live music, wood-fired pizza, and take advantage of exclusive discounts on wine futures.
Choose from two sessions:
- Early Bird: 12 – 3:30 pm (music by DJ Tykes)
- Night Owl: 5 – 8:30 pm (music by Lissa Dee)
Tickets include wine tastings, a souvenir glass, pizza, and live entertainment. 21+ event only.
Embrace the Season
In the spirit of the Kumeyaay tradition of Hilyati, the summer solstice is a time to celebrate abundance, growth, and our connection to the natural world.
Whether you’re hiking in the mountains, gazing up at the stars, or raising a glass at a festive seaside soirée, take time this month to slow down and savor the magic of summer in San Diego.
