WILLIAMSVILLE-The Manitou Project is hosting a woods-inspired Winter Solstice community gathering Friday, Dec. 19, 3 to 5:15 p.m. in Williamsville. All are welcome to this youth-centered celebration of the season, and return of the light to the longest night, with woods lantern walk, music, stories, bonfire, and treats.
It will be led by Melissa Hudasko, who describes herself as a Waldorf-inspired forest school leader, homeschooling mother with a deep reverence for the wonderment of childhood, and "Fairy entrepreneur who brings storytelling magic to inspire the imagination and cultivate devotion for the diverse gifts of the natural world." Joining her will be Michael Mayer, self-described forest protector and Manitou steward, "long committed to the land, its beings, and regenerative practices in West Africa and beyond to heal our relationship with the earth and one another."
Special musical guests include Peter Siegel of the Gaslight Tinkers.
Event promoters welcome all song-spinners and musicians to "make a joyful noise" for singing back the sun. "Warm hearts, stories, song, and tasty treats kindle the spark within, as together we transform the darkest night and summon return of the light," say organizers.
Celebrants should plan to arrive by 3 p.m. for a short hike up the stone stairway to walk the Winter Solstice Spiral at dusk, share storytelling magic around the warmth of the hogan's wood stove, and gather in song around the bonfire. The ceremony ends by 5:15 p.m., then moves indoors for all who wish to stay on for a stone soup potluck - please bring a soup or other delight to share.
Manitouproject.org is the 223-acre woodland sanctuary where community with nature has been brewing for 35 years in collaboration with the Vermont Wilderness School and other local organizations, schools, and families from across the region. It is located at 300 Sunset Lake Rd. in Williamsville (which GPS may read as Newfane). Carpooling is encouraged. Dress warmly for a forest walk and outdoor activities. For more information, call 802-258-8598.
This Town and Village item was submitted to The Commons.