The genesis of another summer is almost upon us.

For the past several years, the first day of summer has June 21, but this year, the summer solstice — the longest day of the year in the northern hemisphere — will take place on Thursday, June 20, with the sun reaching the highest point in the sky at 4:50 p.m.

Over at Ryerson Park, those ready to greet the start of a new season will be gathering to celebrate this day in a drumming circle and yoga at sunset.

Members of the public are invited to join Niagara Nature Tours in the park at 7 p.m. and to bring a drum, a pot, or anything to shake and rattle, as well as a yoga mat for the celebration.

This is the ninth annual Drumming Down the Sun & Yoga in the Park event in Niagara-on-the-Lake — local volunteer Loretta Pietrobond has been running this event since 2014.

Those interested are also advised to bring a blanket or lawn chair to sit on, and are also asked to bring a donation, as donations help cover city park permit fees to rent the area and for operational costs.

No experience is necessary to join in this family community celebration of the longest day of the year.

For more information, visit niagaranaturetours.ca/niagara-summer-solstice.asp.