Summer Solstice, Full Moon and Bozeman Longest Day Event Happening Today

It hasn’t happened in 70 years and it won’t happen again for another 46.

The summer solstice and fall moon fall on the same date today - June 20, 2016.

The summer solstice officially arrives at 4:34 p.m., according to the National Weather Service in Great Falls. It’s at that moment that the sun will reach its northernmost point in the sky, and the day will be the longest day of the year.

The summer solstice and full moon won’t fall on the same date again until the year 2062, according to the National Weather Service. According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, it’s been about 70 years since the two last fell on the same date.

Be sure to step outside later in the night to see the full Strawberry Moon. June’s full moon is named the Strawberry Moon because the Algonquin tribes knew it as a signal to gather ripening fruit, according to the Old Farmer’s Almanac. It also goes by the name Full Rose Moon and Honey Moon.

If you’re looking for something to do to celebrate, Highgate Senior Living is hosting a Longest Day barbecue in Hyalite today from noon to 1 p.m. to raise awareness for its Walk to End Alzheimers, which will be held on Sept. 18. The day will wrap up at the Bozeman Pond with fishing, games and another barbecue at 5:30 p.m.