This year's solstices will occur on June 21 and Dec. 21, marking the shift into summer and winter in the Northern Hemisphere. The June solstice, or summer solstice, will occur when the North Pole of the Earth is tilted towards the sun, reaching its northernmost position in the sky above the Tropic of Cancer. The December solstice, or winter solstice, happens when the South Pole of the Earth tilts towards the sun and reaches its most southern position over the Tropic of Capricorn. Both celestial occurrences are perfect opportunities to have a seasonal dinner to ring in the new phase of the year.