Hugely popular solstice tradition returns
After a year off for Geauga Park District’s large exhibit last year, the Winter Solstice Candlelight Walk is back, welcoming visitors to dress for the weather and bring some light into the longest night of the year. Winter Solstice Candlelight Walk is scheduled for Friday, December 21, from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m at The West Woods Nature Center, 9465 Kinsman Road (Route 87), Russell Twp., 44072
Among the longest-running programs Geauga Park District hosts, in its 23rd year, this walk is well-established as a family tradition countywide.
This year, guests will begin the year’s longest evening indoors with hot cider and cookies, homemade by volunteers, and sing-along opportunities with the accomplished Pilgrim Brass Choir, which has contributed traditional holiday music all 23 years of the program.
Then they’ll head outdoors in volunteer-led groups of 40 to 50 to explore the roots of our modern holiday celebrations derived from ancient civilizations.
Expect to encounter five exciting stations to educate and entertain you about the celebration of the longest night of the year, past and present. This program, held at Swine Creek Reservation for fourteen years and The Rookery for seven, made its debut at The West Woods in 2010. Roughly 15 staff members and 40 volunteers make it happen annually, and with good reason – it regularly attracts about 400 people, said Teresa Runion, Geauga Park District’s special events coordinator.
“What’s so great about this program is that many guests have told me it becomes a tradition for their families, gets them in the spirit, and really kicks off that whole holiday week for them in a positive way,” she said.
The last group will go out at 9 p.m. Due to limited parking, carpooling is highly recommended. Overflow parking will be at ASM International, 9639 Kinsman Road (Route 87), where a shuttle will offer prompt transport to the Nature Center.
The Winter Solstice Candlelight Walk is free for all ages but only wheelchair/stroller accessible indoors. Registration is not required. With questions, just call 440-286-9516.
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