The remodeled south roadway of the Brooklyn Bridge, three lanes wide, opens as the first cars cross it on May 3, 1951.

South Arcade, EAS Lisbon

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Sun Day

Embracing warmth and radiance, basking in the vibrant glow that uplifts spirits and infuses joy into everyday moments.

Sun Day, formally known as International Sun Day, is a unique celebration that honors the Sun. This day emphasizes the importance of solar energy and appreciates the Sun’s contributions to life on Earth. It is a day that allows you to grasp the Sun’s potential and invest in the planet’s sustainability.

People have been fascinated with the sun and its effect on the Earth since ancient days. It has been seen as a symbol of energy, light, and life. Without it, Earth would be a lifeless rock floating in space. In modern times, we see it as a source of clean, renewable energy.

Sun Day is not just a celebration but also a call to action, a reminder to the world of solar power’s potential for a sustainable future.

History of Sun Day

As a formal event, the Sun Day can be traced back to the late 20th century. Its origins refer to the growing environmental movement and the search for alternative energy sources.

The United States celebrated the first official Sun Day on May 3, 1978, after the U.S. Congress designated the date to promote solar power following a joint resolution passed in 1977.

President Jimmy Carter, whose administration was marked by a strong push for renewable energy, supported the initiative, which resonated with the energy crisis of the time.

Since its establishment, this day has seen widespread activities across the U.S., with events highlighting the potential of solar energy and its benefits.

Educational institutions, governmental bodies, and environmental groups have engaged in discussions, demonstrations, and exhibitions to spread awareness.

Although not recognized as an official annual holiday, Sun Day has been celebrated by enthusiasts and environmentalists who continue to advocate for solar energy.

How to Celebrate Sun Day

Celebrating Sun Day can take many forms, from educational activities to a personal commitment to sustainable practices. Here are some ways to honor this day:

Educational Workshops and Seminars: One of the best ways to celebrate Sun Day is by spreading knowledge. Schools and communities can organize workshops and seminars on the benefits of solar energy, how it works, and its impact on reducing carbon footprints. Experts in the field can be invited to give talks that inspire people to consider solar solutions for their energy needs.

Solar-Powered Events: Events that run on solar power are a direct way to demonstrate the capability of this renewable energy source. Whether it’s a concert, a local fair, or a community gathering, using solar panels to power the event can be a powerful statement.

Switch to Solar: Sun Day might be the perfect time for individuals considering solar panels for their homes or businesses. This commitment can result in long-term savings on energy bills and less reliance on fossil fuels.

Advocacy and Community Initiatives: Take a stand to support solar energy development. Joining or starting local initiatives that aim to install solar power in public spaces or provide solar-powered solutions to those in need are perfect ways to celebrate the day and contribute to the community.

Personal Practices: On a more personal level, taking the time to enjoy the Sun responsibly is a way to connect with the essence of Sun Day. This could be as simple as sunbathing, planting a solar garden with sun-loving plants, or cooking with a solar oven.

Artistic Expression: Artists can use Sun Day to create and showcase works that feature the Sun or are created with the help of solar energy. This could include solar light installations, photography that captures the beauty of the Sun, or music inspired by solar themes.

Sun Day is a moment to reflect on our relationship with the Sun and to embrace the possibilities of solar energy. It’s a day to educate, inspire, and take real steps toward a future where clean energy is not the alternative but the standard.

By participating in Sun Day activities or simply taking a moment to appreciate the warmth and light the Sun provides, we can all appreciate its vital role in our lives.

Bistritz: a city in northern Transylvania, Romania (called Bistrița in Romanian)

Buda-Pesth: a city in Hungary (which borders Romania) (modern spelling: Budapest)

Danube: the second-longest river in Europe

Klausenburg: German name of the Romanian city Cluj-Napoca, unofficial capital of the Transylvania region

"was not able to light on": couldn't find

Ordnance Survey: the national mapping agency for Great Britain

"queer dreams": (in this context) strange dreams¹

missal: book containing the prayers, important chants, responses, and necessary instructions for the celebration of the mass in the Roman Catholic Church throughout the year

"clumsy about the waist": having a wide waist, not wearing a corset

prepossessing: attractive or appealing in appearance, creating a favorable impression

Bukovina: a region that in modern times is split between the north of Romania and the south of the Ukraine

diligence: a public stagecoach, like a bus that's pulled by horses