Photo: Secret Lantern Society
December 21st marks the longest night of the year and Winter Solstice. Whether you’re celebrating the dance of the sun and the Earth, or simply the fact that it’s the longest night of the year, there’s a way for everyone to experience this winter celebration in Vancouver.
Connect with the community at the Winter Solstice Lantern Festival
Honouring many cultural traditions, the annual Winter Solstice Lantern Festival illuminates the darkest night of the year with lanterns, fire, singing, drumming, music, storytelling, and dancing. Celebrate this free community event with a glowing constellation of lanterns shining in three Vancouver neighbourhoods: Granville Island, Yaletown and Strathcona. More info can be found here.
Get in touch with nature at Stanley Park
Photo: Stanley Park Ecology Society
Get back to nature in Stanley Park
The chestnuts are roasting and holly has been hung. But where do these traditions originate? Explore the history and customs of mid-winter festivals on this two-hour walk with the Stanley Park Ecology Society. See the plants that have played pivotal roles in the traditions and decorations that we associate with the holiday season and hear stories from different cultural traditions surrounding the shortest day of the year. Tickets and more info for this outdoor learning session can be found here.
Photo Credit: Lift Bar Grill
Go for a cozy outdoor patio meal
Many of Vancouver’s restaurants have covered and heated (yes!) outdoor patios. So grab your significant other or a group of friends and toast the upcoming longer days over a hearty meal. Some standout outdoor heated patios include:
Photo Credit: Eminence Organics
Tune in to your body with a yoga class
If you’re simply wanting to find some zen on Winter Solstice, Vancouver’s yoga studios are a wonderful option. Many will have classes themed towards the change in season, and you’ll leave feeling refreshed and grounded. Find a Vancouver yoga studio here.
Photo: Glow Vancouver Facebook page
Get glowing at Glow Vancouver
All the magic and wonder of an outdoor festival, hosted inside a cozy and spacious venue. Celebrate solstice and the warmth of the season at Glow Vancouver. Bring together the people you love to stroll, laugh and play under the twinkle of a million lights. The playgrounds and interactive features will entertain the kids for hours, while the adults kick back at the licensed bar and enjoy some seasonal beverages, delicious food and live music. For more info and to purchase tickets, click here.
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