The winter solstice, marking the shortest day of the year, will fall on December 21, 2024, at 1:20 am PT, when the Sun enters Capricorn. This celestial turning point not only symbolizes the transition to lengthening days for the Northern Hemisphere but also invites reflection and celebration across various traditions. It’s a time when communities come together to honor the cyclical nature of life, embracing both endings and new beginnings.
One notable celebration is set to take place at Winkler Botanical Preserve, where participants can join certified forest bathing guide Ilana Rubin of Kindred Nature for a restorative forest bathing experience. This unique program allows participants to reconnect with nature through guided sensory activities inspired by the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing, which is known for reducing stress and enhancing overall well-being. Participants will learn to immerse their senses and slow down through mindful invitations such as meditation, observation, and even creating temporary nature art. “All adults are very welcome to register and join us for this program,” Rubin notes, emphasizing accessibility as no prior experience is necessary. Registration is required and the cost is $35 per participant, with spaces available at [Winkler Botanical Preserve website](https://bit.ly/dec21solstice).
On the same day, visitors to the St. Patrick’s County Park can partake in the Winter Solstice Hike, featuring cookies, hot chocolate, and crafts. This self-led hike along a glowing trail is priced at just $5 per person and runs from 6 PM to 8 PM. Attendees are encouraged to register by December 18, promising a unique opportunity to experience nature during the longest night of the year.
The solstice, fundamentally rooted in the Earth’s axial tilt, occurs when either of the planet’s poles reaches its maximum tilt away from the Sun. This results in the least amount of daylight and the longest night. It is known as the hibernal solstice because it signals winter's onset, celebrating the gradual return of light as daylight hours increase following this pivotal moment. Symbolically, for many cultures, it’s also labeled the time of renewal.
According to various traditions, the winter solstice is commonly celebrated through different rituals. For example, some advocate for immersing oneself in nature during the solstice. “Acknowledge all the endeavours culminating in your life,” urges celebrations expert. “Recognize successes and celebrate your works in progress.” Engaging with friends and family through gatherings brings the warmth of community to this time of respite.
Others have their own distinct customs, including lighting candles to symbolize the sun’s return or participating in the Welsh festival known as Alban Arthan, or “Light of Winter.” These practices serve as reminders of the warmth and light returning to the world, emphasizing hope and renewal during the cold winter months. More contemporary variations might also include letting-go ceremonies, where individuals write down unrealistic expectations and ceremoniously dispose of them to embrace self-acceptance.
For those drawn to the astrological significance of the solstice, this period invites reflection. The close proximity of the winter solstice to the New Year makes it particularly potent for assessing personal goals and intentions. Participants are encouraged to set aspirations for 2025 or create altars adorned with seasonal foliage to honor this significant astronomical event. Indeed, the light returning symbolizes the possibility of fresh starts and the warmth of new beginnings.
This year’s winter solstice is marked especially for its rich array of activities, engaging nature enthusiasts, families, and individuals seeking personal growth. By participating and observing traditional practices, communities can find grounding during this time of year. The opportunity for reflection amid festivities not only enhances the experience of the solstice but also fosters connections among individuals celebrating together.
With this blend of natural immersion and introspection, individuals can embrace both joy and contemplation as they observe the changing seasons and prepare for the year to come. Whether through quiet contemplation during forest bathing, active participation on community hikes, or personal rituals, the solstice serves as both closure to the year and the promise of light returning—a universal theme of hope and renewal.
