Updated May 2026 | The hottest months of the year are here in the United States. We'll tell you when summer officially begins and ends in the United States in 2026.
In 2026, summer begins on Sunday, June 21st at exactly 3:25 am Central Time in the United States, and will extend through the months of July, August, and September. The astronomical event that marks the beginning of this season and the end of spring is called the Sun's rising. Summer Solstice, which happens to be the longest day of the year and the shortest night.
The end of summer in the United States lOr we will see it arrive on Tuesday, September 22nd at 10:00 pm, giving way to autumn, with the astronomical event known as equinox of autumn, for those who live in the northern hemisphere of the planet.
What has been the hottest summer in history from the United States?
To date, the hottest summer on record in the US was 2023. NASA documented that average temperatures between June and August were 0,23°C warmer than any other summer recorded by the NASA. These record temperatures were driven by climate change and the El Niño phenomenon.
In 2024, information circulated about a so-called “Heat Dome” which is what they called a heat wave that advanced through the eastern United StatesCoupled with rising global temperatures as a result of climate change, 2024 had one of the hottest summers on record in the U.S.
If you are interested in learning more about climate change, We suggest you visit this NASA link.
We will be attentive to what is recorded on this occasion. Meanwhile, it is very important to take preventive measures to avoid health complications as a result of high temperatures, such as heat stroke.
>>>Here you can read what it is and how to protect yourself from heat stroke.
The schedule does not change
The beginning of summer in the United States is not accompanied by a change in the current schedule. The reason is because this one already happened.
In 2026, The United States changes time twice. On Sunday, March 09 at 2 am the clocks moved forward 1 hour, starting daylight saving time, known in English as “Daylight Saving Time.” The next time change will be on Sunday, November 02 at 2 am, when the clocks are turned back to make way for winter time.
That is, it is not necessary to make adjustments to your watches.
Related: When is the next time change in the United States?

Festivities and activities that indicate that Summer has arrived
In addition to high temperatures, longer days and shorter nights; Summer is distinguished from the rest of the seasons of the year by the recreational activities that surround it, mainly because it coincides with the school vacation period in many countries around the world, and because the warm weather is an invitation to be outdoors.
The United States has 50 states and one capital, and it is not uncommon for each region to have its customs and traditions to welcome summer. Some of the most frequent and representative are outdoor barbecues.
As a curious fact, the Guinness record for the largest BBQ in the United States took place in Texas in 2019. 1,250 cooks grilling 1,200 kilos of meat. The previous record belonged to Mexico, with 11,000 kilos.
The school summer holidays, which begin between May and June and end between August and September, are especially popular for visiting beaches and lakes.
The United States has approximately 95,471 miles (153,646 kilometers) of coastline, including ocean coasts and large lakes. That is, a very large territory of beaches, rivers and lakes. Here you can read about some of the best beach destinations in North Carolina.
Related :
>>> Where to go tubing in North Carolina
>>> 10 must-see places to visit in North Carolina in the summer
Summer 2026 in North Carolina: Heat, Soccer, and Community
The summer of 2026 in North Carolina will be marked by high temperatures, school holidays, cultural festivals and one of the most anticipated sporting events worldwide: the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be held in different cities in the United States, Mexico and Canada.
For many Latino families, this season will combine community gatherings, soccer celebrations, and outdoor activities, so it will be important to stay informed about weather conditions and take precautions against extreme heat.
Remember to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged sun exposure, and especially protect children, the elderly, and athletes during the hottest days.
Now that you know when summer 2026 starts and ends in the United States, tell us in the comments where you're reading from and what traditions, events, or activities you're most looking forward to this summer.
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