Embrace the Dark: A Winter Solstice Lantern Walk Tradition
The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes the familiar whirlwind of shopping, parties, and endless to-do lists. It’s easy to get caught up in the commercial frenzy, losing sight of the true spirit of the season. But what if we could slow down, embrace the quiet beauty of winter, and connect with our loved ones in a more meaningful way? As the slow living movement gains more popularity, it's clear many of us are craving a way to honor the season and embrace the natural ebb and flow of the year.
The Winter Solstice, the darkest day of the year, offers a powerful opportunity for reflection and renewal. Instead of focusing on the absence of light, we can celebrate the promise of its return. One of our favorite ways to do this on our homestead is with a Winter Solstice Lantern Walk – a simple, nature-based tradition that brings us closer to the season, to each other, and to ourselves. This post will guide you through creating your own lantern walk, from crafting simple lanterns to planning your route and reflecting on the meaning of the solstice. Get ready to light the night and welcome the return of the light!
Crafting Simple Solstice Lanterns
The heart of our Winter Solstice Lantern Walk lies in the lanterns themselves. We believe in using natural and recycled materials as much as possible, not only for sustainability but also to deepen our connection with the earth. The best part is that you don't need to be a master craftsman to create beautiful and meaningful lanterns. The joy is truly in the making, not the perfection. Don't stress about perfection. Consider purchasing premade lanterns to allow more time for decorating. Encourage children to collect decorations from nature during a walk to further the experience. Here are a few simple ideas to get you started:
Upcycled Glass Jar Lanterns:
These are a classic for a reason – they're easy to make and look beautiful. Simply clean out glass jars (mason jars, spaghetti sauce jars, even pickle jars work!), and decorate them with natural elements like leaves, twigs, berries, and small pinecones. Use non-toxic glue (or even a homemade flour-and-water paste) to adhere the decorations to the outside of the jar. Once dry, place a battery-operated tea light inside for a warm, flickering glow. Remember to supervise children, or use this as an opportunity to show them crafting safety.
![close up hands decorating glass jar leaves]
Paper Bag Star Lanterns:
A super simple option that’s perfect for little hands. All you need are brown paper lunch bags, scissors, sand or pebbles, and tea lights. Flatten the bag and draw a star shape on one side. Carefully cut out the star shape with scissors (younger children may need help with this step). Open the bag, place a small amount of sand or pebbles in the bottom to weigh it down, and insert a tea light. These look especially magical lining a pathway.
![brown paper bag star lantern path]
Orange Peel Lanterns:
This is a fun and fragrant option! Carefully cut an orange in half and scoop out the pulp (save it for juice or snacking!). Using a small knife or cookie cutters, carve patterns into the orange peel. Place a tea light inside, and the warm light will illuminate the intricate designs, filling the air with a citrusy aroma. These are best made right before the walk, as the peels will dry out quickly.
![hands carving orange peel lantern winter]
Nature-Weaved Lanterns:
If you're feeling a bit more ambitious, try creating lanterns by weaving natural materials onto a frame. You can find pre-made lantern frames at craft stores or even repurpose old wire baskets. Then, gather branches, straw, reeds, or even dried vines from your homestead or local park. Weave these materials around the frame to create a rustic and beautiful lantern. A few colorful leaves can be added to customize the look.
![hands weaving a lantern frame using different nature materials]
Planning Your Winter Solstice Lantern Walk
Once your lanterns are ready, it's time to plan your walk. The location should be quiet and peaceful, promoting quiet contemplation and a connection with nature.
Choosing the Right Location:
Consider your own homestead, a local park, or a quiet trail in the woods. The most important thing is to choose a place that feels safe and inviting, and that is accessible for everyone participating. If you live in an urban area, a quiet city park or even your own backyard can work beautifully.
Safety First:
Dress warmly in layers, wear waterproof boots, and bring a flashlight or headlamp for extra visibility. Be aware of your surroundings and watch out for uneven terrain. If you're walking in a park or on a trail, be mindful of other people and animals. The winter months can be dangerous with black ice and other factors. Be aware and take extra precautions.
Timing is Everything:
The best time for your lantern walk is just after sunset on the Winter Solstice (usually around December 21st). This is when the darkness is deepest, and the lanterns will shine the brightest.
Map Out Your Route:
Keep the walk short and manageable, especially if you have young children participating. A half-mile to one-mile loop is usually a good length. Make sure the route is relatively flat and easy to navigate.
Weather Contingency:
Have a backup plan in case of inclement weather. If it's snowing or raining, consider having an indoor lantern display instead. You can line your windowsills or decorate your home with the lanterns, creating a cozy and festive atmosphere.
![map drawn showing solstice lantern walk route]
Solstice Reflections and Celebratory Elements
The Winter Solstice Lantern Walk is more than just a pretty stroll through the dark. It's an opportunity for mindful reflection, gratitude, and connection.
Quiet Moments of Reflection:
During the walk, pause at different points to simply be present and appreciate the beauty of the winter landscape. Notice the stillness of the air, the crispness of the snow, and the warmth of the lantern light.
Discuss the Significance of the Solstice:
Talk about the meaning of the solstice – the shortest day of the year, the turning point when the days begin to grow longer again. Discuss the symbolism of light and darkness, and the promise of new beginnings.
Share Gratitude:
Encourage each family member to share something they are grateful for from the past year. This is a wonderful way to acknowledge the blessings in our lives and to cultivate a sense of appreciation.
Read a Poem or Sing a Song:
Bring along a favorite poem or short story about winter or light to read aloud. Alternatively, sing a simple winter song together.
Warm Cider and a Bonfire (Optional):
If you have a safe place to do so, consider ending the walk with a small bonfire and a cup of warm apple cider or hot chocolate. This is a lovely way to warm up and share some festive cheer.
This is a time for celebration of the small things! Be present, be mindful, be grateful.
![family warm cider around bonfire snow solstice]
Honoring the Season: Connecting with Nature’s Rhythm
The Winter Solstice Lantern Walk is just one way to connect with nature during the winter months. Here are a few other ideas:
Nature Journaling:
Keep a nature journal and record your observations about the winter landscape. Notice the different colors, textures, and patterns you see. Sketch or paint what you find interesting.
![hands drawing winter landscape nature journal]
Foraging (Safely and Responsibly):
Learn about the edible and medicinal plants that can be found in your area during the winter. Gather pinecones, berries, or evergreen boughs for decorations. Always be sure to identify plants correctly before consuming them, and only forage in areas where it is permitted.
Winter Gardening:
Plan for spring planting, tend to overwintering crops, or start seeds indoors. Even in the depths of winter, there is still gardening to be done!
Animal Tracking:
Identify animal tracks in the snow and learn about the habits of the creatures that share your environment.
Bird Watching:
Observe winter birds and provide them with food and shelter. You can create a simple bird feeder from a pinecone, peanut butter, and birdseed.
Connect With Other Families:
Share with your community and hear what others have done. It is a wonderful experience to share ideas and be inspired.
![family winter bird watching feeding birds]
The Winter Solstice Lantern Walk is a simple yet profound tradition that allows us to connect with nature, create lasting memories, and reject the commercialism of the holiday season. It's a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always light to be found. Embrace the quiet magic of winter, gather your loved ones, and light the night.
![single lantern path leading into snowy forest]
We challenge you to create your own Winter Solstice Lantern Walk tradition this year. Share your photos and experiences on social media using #BHHSolsticeLanternWalk, and be sure to leave a comment below sharing your own winter solstice traditions. For more tips on simple, sustainable living, subscribe to our newsletter!