No one needs to tell anyone currently existing within Southern California that Monday, June 20, 2016 is the longest day of the year.
It's also going to be the hottest day of the year, thus far, so call it an understatement of vast proportions to say that, yes, summer is at the forefront of many sweaty-browed minds.
But even though we're seeking out oscillating fans, and ice cream bars, and sprinklers, and the ocean, many a local still longs to pay heed to what has been, throughout history, a hallowed time of observance, reflection, and peaceful sunset-watchery.
Know this: If you're hoping to visit that famous hilltop bastion of all things cosmic, you'll find it closed on June 20. But it won't be totally quiet 'round Griffith Observatory, as staffers will host June 20 press events regarding the solstice during the day and evening.
Thus you're bound to see some hubbub if you drive up the hill to call upon the observatory's famous sundial. (A fine and timely outing on the longest day of the year, or any day of the year that doesn't have extreme cloud cover.)
If you want to be in the parking lot at sunset, that's at 8:08 p.m. Starting June 21, the slow and steady march to earlier nightfall times kicks off.
If you desire something less silent, and more celebratory, for your solstice needs, hang tight. A trio of summer solstice parties are just ahead over the final weekend in June, including one at the Muckenthaler Cultural Center in Fullerton on June 26, Summer SOULstice in Santa Monica on June 26, and the long-running, always lively parade in Santa Barbara on Saturday, June 25.
