Are the early evenings getting you down? Celebrate the Winter Solstice this Tuesday, December 22 – the days are only getting longer from here! Take the time to learn about the day, and even though school is out, teachers and parents can hold a candle-light celebration that pays heed to energy conservation.
Learning Ideas
- Wondering how to recognize this day? The Solstice is feted in many different ways around the world. Did you know that for many ancient civilizations, this was an important spiritual time? Start by reading about six archaeological sites that researchers believe pay tribute to the Solstice from LiveScience – fascinating stuff! Fun fact: since the sun is at its lowest arc across the sky on the solstice, shadows are at their longest (see Mother Nature Network for more).
- While the Solstice is felt in different ways around the world, it holds cultural significance for many populations. Find out how the Solstice is celebrated, from Stonehenge, UK, to San Tomas, Guatemala.
- Many communities hold festive events around the Solstice: from the Kensington Market Winter Solstice Parade in Toronto to the Return of the Light celebration in London, this is a wonderful time to reflect on the past year and look forward to a new one.
- Urban planning buffs, you’ll like this! Did you know that many city streets are either purposely or accidentally aligned along the direction of rising sun of the Solstice? Explore the interactive map.
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