Summer solstice offers extra moments for love
Ancient cultures around the world once celebrated it as a sacred time to honor nature's bounty and life-sustaining spirits.
Today it's not quite that serious.
Still, the longest day of the year, or summer solstice, offers creative ways for couples to share that extra daylight - and gives singles more time to spot someone special. That's especially true this year, since the solstice falls this Saturday and groups around the suburbs are hosting events to celebrate.
To discover some fun facts and maybe even the proverbial romantic sunset, head to Spring Valley Nature Center in Schaumburg. If you're cool with joining a group outing that includes families with children, Conservation Services Manager Dave Brooks will teach you about why this Saturday is actually a big deal.
"I sometimes describe it as a mad rush forward to the solstice," Brooks says. "A lot of the plants and animals are kind of at their peak right now because of the weather and abundance of food."
Brook will lead a hike through the forest, serve natural foods from the property and drive a wagon tour of the preserves. And if nature cooperates, there might even be a few surprises.
"Just as the sun was going down, we were treated to an incredible firefly show last year," Brooks said.
Quiet nights in nature aren't for everyone, though, and that's why the owners of Penny Road Pub in South Barrington are honoring the solstice in an entirely different way: a day-long concert. This Saturday the 36-year-old pub will host its first-ever outdoor event with performances by bands playing classic rock and modern tunes. Acts include Rock of Ages, Who Knew, Metal College, Heaven 'n' Hell Chicago, Slam Bang, Remote Viewer and The Pimps. Shows start at noon and rock on well past sunset.
Bob Slawek, whose company JBC Entertainment Booking organized the show, said the pub wanted to attract a more diverse crowd with outdoor music, so kicking off their four-concert series on the solstice seemed like a promising start.
"We thought, 'How can we expand and do more things?' and this seemed perfect," he said.
But if neither earthy romance or flirty concerts are your thing, check out the third annual Scandinavian Midsommar Festival in South Elgin, which mixes solstice tradition with fest-style fun. The event offers traditions and food from Denmark, Iceland, Finland, Norway and Sweden in Vasa Park, located along the Fox River. Of course, there will be food and music, but you can also get a taste of old pagan traditions at the fest's end, which features dancing and a bonfire.
Summer Solstice Celebration
When: 7 to 9 p.m. Saturday
Where: Spring Valley Nature Center & Heritage Farm, 1111 E. Schaumburg Road, Schaumburg
Cost: $ 6 per person
Web: parkfun.com
Phone: (847) 985-2100
Summer Solstice Festival
When: Noon Saturday
Where: Penny Road Pub, 545 Penny Road, South Barrington
Cost: $12 per person
Web: myspace.com/pennyroadpub; myspace.com/jbcinc
Phone: (847) 428-0562
Third annual Midsommar Festival
When: 2 to 9 p.m. Saturday
Where: Vasa Park, 35W217 Route 31, South Elgin
Cost: $5 per person
Web: vasaparkil.com
Phone: (847) 695-6720