June 21 is the summer solstice. The summer solstice isan astronomical event caused by the tilt of the Earth’s axis relative to the planet’s orbit around the sun. From the equinox (March 20) to the winter solstice (June 21), the Northern Hemisphere—which includes Canada—is closer to the sun’s warm rays than at any other time of the year.
It’s also officially the first day of summer, which means we’re officially entering the warm season in Montreal. It’s the longest day of the year, and also the shortest night.
So on Sunday, June 21, 2026, we absolutely have to make the most of it, right?
The sun, the light, the solstice
At the mysterious stone circle of Stonehenge, the sun passes between the stones to create a truly magical effect on the morning of the summer solstice. The solstice is celebrated by Indigenous peoples in Canada, by pagans in England, by nature-based religions, and by villages in Eastern Europe.
This year, we recommend stopping by the Stanstead Stone Circle to soak up the good vibes and the warm rays of the sun.
Where? The Stanstead Stone Circle, at Boulevard Notre-Dame West, Stanstead, J0B 3E2 / between a 1 hour 40 minute and 2 hour drive from downtown Montreal
When? Open to everyone at all times
How? Free admission / for more information, we recommend following the Instagram account @stansteadstonecircle
National Indigenous Peoples Day
June 21 is the summer solstice—the longest day of the year—and it is also National Indigenous Peoples Day, which celebrates and recognizes the cultures, traditions, and territorial sovereignty of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples.
National Indigenous Peoples Day was officially proclaimed in 1996, and it is an opportunity to learn about and celebrate the peoples and cultures of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit. In 2026, it will mark the 30th anniversary of this day.
Space for Life and the Botanical Garden are hosting an afternoon of celebrations for National Indigenous Peoples’ Day on June 21, featuring:
- Small marketfeaturing Indigenous artisans
- Traditional dances
- Musical performance
- Anneda teatasting andbannock bites
Every day,you can also take a guided tour—an Introduction to the First Peoples of Quebec—to learn about and discover the region’s Indigenous peoples, who are the sovereigns of the lands plundered by colonization. / Between May 1 and October 30, 2026, at 11 a.m.
Dance the night away
Of course, the summer solstice makes you want to dance all night long. For the 2026 solstice, we’re going to dance at Piknic Électronik.
On Sunday, June 21, the schedule is:
- 4:00 PM (Fizz-Saint Jean Stage) / Rebel of Sleep
- 4:00 PM (National Bank Stage) / BEAMSKII
- 6:00 PM (Fizz-Saint Jean Stage) / Hyunji-A
- 6:00 p.m. (National Bank Stage) / D.BLAVATSKY
- 7:30 PM (Fizz-Saint Jean Stage) / SULTAN + SHEPARD (DJ SET)
- 7:30 PM (National Bank Stage) / Shadow Wizard Money Gang
Where?At Parc Jean-Drapeau, on Île Sainte-Hélène
When?Sunday, June 21
How much? Prices vary depending on the night, but if you buy your ticket early enough, it’s around $25. To buy tickets and see the full lineup, click here
