By Julia Beauregard
Hometown Weekly Editor
On the evening of Thursday, December 21st families gathered at Hale Education to celebrate the winter solstice. The winter solstice is an astronomical event that occurs each year when the Northern Hemisphere is tilted farthest away from the sun, resulting in the shortest day and longest night of the year. The winter solstice marks the first day of the winter season.
The event kicked off at 5pm with folks of all ages gathering at the barn at the Andrew Cucchiara Learning Center.
Dazzling holiday lights were hung from the trees, creating a magical atmosphere on the grounds. There were two roaring fires that friends and strangers alike gathered around for warmth and conversation. Hale offered hot chocolate, apple cider, s’mores, and popcorn to share. Little ones enjoyed roasting marshmallows with their parents, many running back over to the s’mores station to enjoy their second or third campfire treat.
Hale offered two guided nighttime hikes for any families interested as well, with a family friend hike and an all ages hike both commencing at 5:45pm.
The event offered a unique opportunity for people of all cultural backgrounds to come together and celebrate the start of the holiday season together under the illumination of the moon.
The winter solstice is truly a celebration for all as it bears great influence and significance on most cultural and religious practices.Many cultures celebrate festivals and holidays around this time, often marking the beginning of winter and the gradual return of longer days as the sun's position in the sky starts to shift. In some traditions, the winter solstice is associated with themes of rebirth, renewal, and the triumph of light over darkness. For example, in some pagan traditions, the solstice is seen as a time for rituals and celebrations to welcome the return of the sun's warmth and light. Additionally, the winter solstice has influenced the timing of various religious and cultural celebrations, such as Christmas and Hanukkah.
On behalf of Hometown Weekly, we hope everyone has a wonderful holiday season.
