For thousands of years, people from all over the world celebrated the darkest day of the year — the winter solstice. What exactly is the winter solstice? It is the shortest day and longest night of the year. It is also the turning point from which the days start to grow longer.
Today we understand the science behind the solstice, the seasons and the earth’s tilt. But for thousands of years, people across the world created their own customs to combat the darkness and bring back the light. In fact, many of the holiday traditions we see today, such as hanging wreaths on doors and hanging up lights, hail back to those ancient traditions.
Whether you want to try a new tradition or just need an excuse to be outside in the dark, here are some ideas to enjoy the solstice and the long nights of winter.
For those who like the dark
Go stargazing! Pick a spot that is as far away as you can get from porch lights, house lights, streetlights and store signs. Grab a warm blanket and sit or lay down on the ground. Do you see any stars? Are some close together? Do you recognize any constellations? The Milky Way?
Hunt like nocturnal animals. It’s like a game of tag, but instead of “it” touching another player, the person who is “it” closes their eyes while everyone else moves as quietly as they can around the area. If “it” points to the noisemaker, they’re out! Nocturnal animals hunt much the same way, using their heightened sense of sound to track their prey. Except if you’re a field mouse, an owl is going to do more than just point at you!
Go on a walk! Explore your neighborhood in the dark. Do you recognize it? Are there neighbors coming or going who you don’t see during the day? This includes your animal neighbors. Stop and listen to see just whoooo is out here. Don’t forget to bring a flashlight and an adult for safety!
Bonus: Go on an eyeshine scavenger hunt. You don’t even have to leave your backyard. Take a flashlight and scan some trees or grassy areas. Are any eyes glowing back at you?
For those who enjoy the light
Play flashlight tag! All you need are some friends, neighbors or siblings and space to run around in. And flashlights.
Have a bonfire! The bigger, the brighter. (But be responsible). Toss in some pine or evergreen branches for an extra-fragrant fire. During the bonfire, enjoy a cup of warm cider or hot chocolate. Share with some friends. Feeling crafty? Keep those fingers warm by taking some branches and shaping them into a wreath. Find a tree, gate or door to hang it on. Bonus: Take a piece of paper and write down something you want to let go of. It could be a worry, a regret, a sadness or something that made you angry. Fold it up and toss it into the bonfire. Encourage your companions to do the same. As the smoke from the paper rises, set your mind to good intentions and promises (lighter things!) for the new year.
If you don’t have the space or help to make a bonfire, consider lighting some candles inside your home. (Ask an adult first!) To make your space extra cozy, refrain from turning on electric lights such as lamps, ceiling lights, TVs or phones and instead just enjoy the candlelight. People across cultures would gather around bonfires, fireplaces and candlelight to tell stories and enjoy each other’s company. Do you have a funny story to tell others? Can you make some shadow puppets? Do your parents, grandparents or other family members have memories to share?
You might have noticed all the activities above have a little bit of light and dark, meaning you can never have one without the other. Whether you enjoy the winter or not, the cool, dark days mean there are also warm days ahead. Enjoy the gifts of each season!
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