A brief history Winter solstice

The winter solstice is a significant event that has been celebrated for centuries. It marks the longest night of the year and the impending return of the sun. It was a time for people to gather, share stories, and celebrate the coming of the new year. Many cultures had their own unique ways of celebrating the winter solstice, including bonfires, sharing food, hanging evergreen boughs, and exchanging gifts.

Today, the winter solstice is still celebrated around the world, with many people taking the time to reflect on the past year and set intentions for the year ahead.

If you are like me, and my more… witchy friends, you also feel the call to honor it in some way.

Here are 5 unique and creative ideas to celebrate the winter solstice where you live:

Host a winter solstice bonfire.

Gather your loved ones around a fire. Roast marshmallows. Drink hot cocoa. Share stories. Not only do you get to bask in the warmth of the flames as they light up the night, you get to be mesmerized by the stars in the sky above! Or if you’re lucky, the aurora.

Create a winter solstice altar.

Use candles, crystals, pinecones, and other natural elements to decorate your altar. You can also add photos of loved ones who have passed away to honor their memory. This way you can set aside a special space in your home where you can reflect on the significance of the day.

Take a winter hike

Bundle up and hit the trails to take in the beauty of the winter landscape. Bring a thermos of hot tea or cocoa to enjoy along the way. Take time to connect with nature and breath in the crisp winter air.

Create a winter solstice feast

Use seasonal ingredients like root vegetables, winter squash, and cranberries. Incorporate traditional foods like roasted meats and mulled wine. Invite your loved ones and enjoy a delicious meal together.

Take some time for self-care

Reflect on the past year and set intentions for the year ahead. Light candles. Practice self-care like taking a bath, meditating, or journaling. Take this time to recharge your batteries for the coming year and to shed the troubles of the previous year.

Bonus idea:

Celebrate the winter solstice by watching the sunrise on the day of the solstice. Find a spot to watch the sunrise and take in the beauty of the first light of the new season. It will be a magical experience that you will be hard pressed to forget!

I hope this list is helpful in bringing inspiration to your winter solstice celebration!

If you find yourself feeling down about the dark, cold days of winter, like I do, remember that the winter solstice marks the turning point towards brighter days ahead!

Tag me in your posts; I’d love to see what you end up doing!