The difference between Summer Solstice (June 21 - 1 a.m.) and Midsummer (June 24)

from article for 2013 dates -- www.almanac.com/ (Old Farmer's Almanac) ______________________________________________________________________ Summer begins with the solstice at 1:04 A.M. (Eastern time) on June 21, 2013. Although Midsummer Day, June 24, occurs only a few days after the solstice, to the farmer it was the midpoint of the growing season, halfway between planting and harvesting, and therefore an occasion for celebration. Midsummer Eve bonfires and dancing around the Midsummer pole are old customs still observed around the world today. Midsummer Lore Midsummer Eve and Midsummer Day are considered sacred to lovers. On Midsummer Eve, pick seven different wildflowers, then walk home silently and backward. Place the flowers under your pillow and dream of your future husband. Salt thrown in the bonfire wards off bad luck. Carry a torch on Midsummer Eve to dispel evil.