Summer solstice in New York

Posted on June 20, 2012 by ailsapm

As if to welcome the summer solstice today, temperatures in New York soared to record-breaking highs. Cooling centres were opened all around the city and air conditioners were cranked up to provide respite from the stifling heat.

Noel Coward once wrote a song with the lyrics “Mad dogs and Englishmen go out in the midday sun” and I think New Yorkers should be added to that list, because as the heat continued to rise, thousands of people grabbed their yoga mats and headed out to Times Square to salute the sun on the solstice. Organised by the Times Square Alliance, this annual event is now in its tenth year.

summer solstice new york times square  summer solstice new york times square

summer solstice new york times square  summer solstice new york times square

Passersby stopped in their tracks to watch the yoga class en masse. Even Times Square regulars were intrigued…

summer solstice new york times square               summer solstice new york times square

There is something visually spectacular about a large group of people doing a practice in unison; it makes for compelling viewing. Here are a few of my favourite moments:

summer solstice new york times square

summer solstice new york times square

summer solstice new york times square

summer solstice new york times square

summer solstice new york times square   summer solstice new york times square

summer solstice new york times square  summer solstice new york times square

summer solstice new york times square  summer solstice new york times square

summer solstice new york times square

summer solstice new york times square

summer solstice new york times square

Namaste.

Posted in New York, United States | Tagged , , , , , , | 54 Comments