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This Wednesday (June 21) is the summer solstice, meaning we get about 17 hours of glorious daylight to enjoy. Traditionally we should be making flower crowns and dancing at Stonehenge, but that’s a long way from here, so we have come up with some ideas for solstice themed student events in Leeds instead.
From South Asian beats and rhythms to gorgeous walks, creative retreats and even a whirling Dervish, we’ve got it covered. So, if you’re wondering what to do on the summer solstice, read on…
Music and dance
The Summer Solstice: South Asian Music Festival at Leeds Corn Exchange has become something of a tradition. Now in its twelfth year, this event is a total immersive experience with beats that are energising and uplifting, and hypnotic melodies that can touch your soul. Run by South Asian Arts UK, the line-up includes Shah-e-Mardaan qawwali ensemble and whirling Dervish, and award-winning musician Qais Essar, who will send you into a sublime dream state as he plays his 2,500-year-old Afghan rabab.
There will also be food, drinks and stalls for souvenirs. Doors open at 11am on Wednesday 21 June, and there is a pay ‘what you can’ door policy.
Artists and makers
If solstice leaves you feeling the need to escape the urban city environment and wear flowers in your hair then the events at UPCO, a group of artists’ studios in the nearby town of Otley, might be just the thing you’ve been looking for.
There are a series of events to mark the solstice, and on the day itself there will be a creative gathering where guests can write, sing, dance, and even enjoy a group river swim.
Book via the website and check out the bus timetables for direct travel to Otley.
Go for a sunrise breakfast
Students aren’t famed for getting up early, so while we might suggest an 5am alarm call and a picnic breakfast on a hill somewhere, we’re not going to.
Instead, you could plan a night out / in with your mates and stay up to watch the sunrise, which will be at about 4.44am on Wednesday. Plan the occasion so you have the good coffee in, and maybe some bake at home croissants (or marmite on toast) and enjoy the beauty of Midsummer.
Make a flower crown
There are a few courses in the city where you can be taught how to make a flower crown, but they are pretty spendy and we think you could make a beautiful one all on your own.
Don’t be tempted to pick any wildflowers – leave those for the city and the insects. Instead grab a few bunches from your local florist or market, pick some leaves, and get creative. It’s best to start with a headband or a just a cardboard ring as your base, but from there it’s yours to go wild with.
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