Start Date: December 21, 2023
From 16:30 to 18:30
Address
Five Oaks Centre, Paris, Ontario
Details
Making Friends with the Dark
Description:
when we cling stubbornly to our electrical suns and clocks,
replacing stars that mark the passage of time,
we make an unnatural enemy of the dark.
Yet there are so many precious; integral things that are not well suited to the light of day. Join us around the bonfire as we practice remembering that we and the dark are actually old friends! In a comforting, song-filled ceremony we’ll surrender ourselves and all the things we’ve been longing for but haven’t yet been able to achieve, over to the dark time. — Niki
Event Flow
We will begin the evening by enjoying a warm bowl of chili followed by reflective readings and sharing; lighting of the bonfire, singing and releasing our longings and opening ourselves to the blessings of a new year. The chili dinner will be served from 4:30- 5:00 p.m. The solstice ceremony will follow.
This is an outdoor event. Be sure to dress for the weather, including boots, hats and mitts! Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, and flashlights. When you arrive, park in the main parking lot and sign in before exploring.
More about Solstice:
Solstice is the moment in time that one of Earth’s poles is at its maximum tilt. This means that when the winter solstice occurs, the sun travels its shortest path through the sky. Otherwise known as the beginning of winter, solstice occurs on December 21st, the shortest day, and the longest night of the calendar year. After the winter solstice, the days get longer, the nights get shorter until the longest day which is known as summer solstice.
Why celebrate?
There are many winter solstice traditions that have been practiced by cultures from around the world for thousands of years. These traditions usually share a theme of celebration and feasting, gathering with loved ones, giving back to nature, and welcoming the light.
This is an outdoor event. Be sure to dress for the weather, including boots, hats, and mitts! Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, and flashlights.
When you arrive, park in the main parking lot and sign in before exploring.
Price: Adult – $25.00; Child – $0 (regular Child 12 & Under programming fee is $8 but is being offered at no charge through a bursary)
Food: Beef Chili Dinner with a roll/biscuit for $9.00 per person (This is an Optional Add-On)
