The summer season is a joyous time of year. Summer days are long, warm, and there is so much fun to be had.  The longest day of the year falls on June 21st, summer solstice. What many do not know is that not only is this summer solstice, it is also World Music Day.  

Fête de la Musique, also known as Music Day, Make Music Day, or World Music Day is an annual music celebration, celebrated all over the world on June 21st.  It all started in France, 36 years ago. France’s Ministry of Culture envisioned a day where free, live music would be played everywhere, from the gardens to the rooftops. Everyone would be invited to join and partake in whatever form of music they enjoyed.  Now 36 years later, this day of music is celebrated all over the world.

This worldwide holiday is now observed by hundreds of millions of people in more than 1,000 cities in 120 counties, that are all celebrating a daylong music free for all. There will over 5,000 free outdoor concerts, music lessons, jam sessions, and other music making events. Aside from concerts and music lessons, this year many iconic United States landmarks and buildings will shine orange for Make Music Day. Some of these landmarks include Niagara Falls, Boston City Hall, US Bank Tower, and many more.

This holiday is unlike any other because everyone is invited to join in dancing and playing to music. This summer solstice we invite you to get out into your community and help celebrate, not only summer solstice, but Make Music Day as well.

Written by: Hailee Bartling / Power of Positive Music Movement