Longest Day Of the Year; Few Notice.

At precisely 7:59 p.m. on Friday in New York, a momentous celestial event, one that has been celebrated around the planet for thousands of years, officially arrived. Summer began, or in astronomical terms, the sun reached its highest point in the sky, marking the summer solstice and the longest day of the year, which means more sunlight. In ancient times, Egyptians heralded the event as the start of the New Year. Native Indians held elaborate ceremonies. And the Celts, always up for a party, danced and lighted bonfires to add to the sun's energy. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]