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Winter Solstice
 

The first day of Winter, depending on the solar calendar, can be on December 21st or 22nd. The days are short, the nights are long and the air is cold. While it can feel like you're surrounded by darkness, beauty can be found in it. Embrace this season with rest, candlelight, comfort food and slowing down with the people you love.

Traditional Ways of Celebrating & What Inspires Us:

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THEME​

  • Nature: Snow/snowflakes, moon & stars

  • White, Black

  • Candlelight

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BEAUTY & FASHION

  • Neutral, sparkles, fur, snowy graphics

  • Winter accessories: hats, earmuffs, scarves, gloves, mittens, muffs

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DÉCOR

  • What do you have in storage?

  • Do you need anything new to compliment your theme?

  • If hosting, create a space to take photos

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ENTERTAINMENT​

  • Pick a new show to watch this season

  • Winter-themed playlist or start a new go to list for the season

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FLOWERS

  • White, light pink, yellow, blue, purple

  • Get outside to grab some greenery, white birch branches, winter berries, even dead weeds and flowers can look so beautiful this time of year

  • Visit your local florist for a creative winter display or go to a local wreath/centerpiece making class

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FOOD & DRINK

  • Enjoy fresh foods of the season and hot comfort meals

  • Winter fruits: kiwi, oranges, pineapple, nuts

  • Winter vegetables: beets, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, winter squash​

  • Comfort food: soup, stew, beef/pork/venison roast, fresh bread, casseroles

  • Hot beverages: hot chocolate, coffee, tea, hot cider ​​​​​​​​

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FUN

  • Host a party or small dinner party to welcome the new season

  • Make a winter nature arrangement or craft using pine or birch branches, dried oranges, etc.

  • Enjoy some fresh air with outdoor activities: snow shoeing, make a snow fort, snowman or snow angel, go skating, tobogganing, skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, curling, hockey

  • Head out for a little day trip to enjoy the new scenery

  • Visit a local market in search of seasonal items

  • Bonfire or stargazing - easy to do on the darkest day of the year

  • Seasonal activity and event ideas: winter fair, local concert, sporting event

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GIFTS & GREETINGS

  • Host gifts: flowers, a small plant or winter arrangement, their favourite beverage or treat, candle

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PARTY TIME

  • Attending?

    • Get yourself ready (hair, nails, makeup, outfit)

    • Host gift (see gifts & greetings)

    • Pack your own beverage

    • Potluck? Prepare and pack your contribution

    • Take photos

  • Hosting?

    • Guest list & invites

    • Clean house

    • Yard maintenance

    • Theme décor

    • Get yourself ready (hair, nails, makeup, outfit)

    • Prepare menu

    • Entertainment (music, games…)

    • Display previous years’ photos and take more to add

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PHOTOS

  • Take photos of yourself and those you are celebrating with

  • Look back on past years with an organized slideshow or photo album

  • Use theme inspired props like: snowflakes, hats, scarves, mittens, fur​

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QUOTES

  • "Winter Solstice Blessing" by Donna Fletcher

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TRADITIONS​ 

  • Yule log

  • Lighting candles - to make up for less sun

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KIDS & CLASSROOM FUN

  • Paper snowflakes, snow/moon/star themed art, decorate or make a candle

  • Read books and listent to music about winter

  • Discuss changes of the season and favourite winter activities

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WORKPLACE

  • Treat others with baked goods and warm beverages

  • If you set goals or resolutions for the year, take time to reflect on where you are - if you haven't reached your goal, don't stress over the last few days, show gratitude for how far you have come and make note on how you can improve or move forward in the new year.

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