Salutations Welcome the Sun’s Rebirth At Winter Solstice Events

Winter solstice can’t come fast enough. The day with the shortest period of daylight and the longest night of the year means there’s more light in our future. As the earth’s axis begins to shift, the days will become longer, and the nights shorter. Solstice rituals and feasts at this time help usher in the change. Here in the Rural Intelligence region, there are plenty of ways to delight in the day — from winter walks to immersive retreats.

Winter Solstice Celebration at Olana Historic Site, Hudson
Saturday, December 17, 1-5 p.m.

The day that the solstice is “officially” celebrated is a Wednesday this year. If you can’t wait until then, you’re in luck: Olana State Historic Site is throwing its Winter Solstice Celebration at Olana in Hudson on Saturday, December 17. Exploring the eclectic interior at Olana — the masterpiece home of Hudson River School artist Frederic Church — is a treat in itself. During the Winter Solstice Celebration at the national historic site, you can wander throughout the first floor, admiring its intricate and iconic stenciling, for free.

After soaking up all that beauty, venture outside to snap a holiday pic with Hank the miniature donkey and learn about how donkeys were a regular sight on Olana’s carriage roads back in the day. During your visit, you can put a good dent in your holiday shopping list at the Olana Museum store, which will be open from 10 a.m-5 p.m. Then grab refreshments from a vendor and cozy up to the outdoor bonfire from 3-4 p.m; amid the crackling flames and spectacular views, listen to storyteller Pamela Badila spin tales by firelight.

Mountain Mindfulness — Winter Solstice Walk at Mount Greylock State Reservation, Lanesborough, MA
Wednesday, December 21, 1-3 p.m.

One of the best ways to honor the solstice is by enjoying the crisp air amid a wintry landscape. Do that with meditation and mindful breathing at the Mountain Mindfulness — Winter Solstice Walk on Wednesday, December 21, from 1–3 p.m. at Mount Greylock State Reservation. Suzy Conroy of Terra Trek NY will guide participants on a slow saunter through the forest, incorporating elements of meditation and mindful breathing, to celebrate the return of the light. This is a great opportunity to reset the soul by sitting with the trees, inviting present-moment awareness, reducing stress, and gaining inspiration. Through invitations and prompts, Suzy will assist in settling your awareness in nature’s forgiving atmosphere.

Although it’s not billed as a strenuous hike, it’s still a smart idea to dress in layers appropriate for outdoor hiking in winter, and to wear sturdy boots (consider bringing hiking poles and traction devices for your boots, too). The program is slated to last two hours, so participants should bring drinking water and a snack. This program is free for all ages and skill levels; children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. No experience is necessary. Pre-registration is recommended by December 19.

Winter Solstice Celebration at the Fire Pit, Steep Rock Association, New Preston, CT
Wednesday, December 21, 5 p,m.

If you’re looking for an easygoing farewell to shorter days, gather a group of friends and hit the firepit behind Steep Rock House during the Winter Solstice Celebration on the nearly 1,000-acre Steep Rock Preserve in New Preston, Connecticut. Plan a day trip and explore some of the 18 miles of trails before joining friends around the fire at 5 p.m. Refreshments will be available during the celebration.

Winter Solstice Retreat at Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health, Stockbridge, MA
December 20-22

Those who want more than just a single day’s celebration can immerse themselves in the Winter Solstice Retreat, offered from December 20-22 at the Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health in Stockbridge. For half a century, Kripalu has lured people from all over the world for yoga and wellness retreats. What better place to give your soul a reset — and reconnect to nature’s tranquility — than here, amid the best view in the Berkshires? Kripalu’s three-day retreat explores the Nordic philosophy of hygge with guided mindful outdoor experiences, outdoor fire meditations, and indoor meditations. Micah Mortali — author and founder of the Kripalu School of Mindful Outdoor Leadership — will help participants find stillness within the season as they learn about the Celtic Wheel of the Year and Ayurvedic wisdom for finding balance. Tuition is $299, plus an additional charge for accommodations that include three healthy, delicious meals per day.