Parks and Recreation

December 17, 2015 by Staff Report

GEAUGA PARK DISTRICT

For more information on these programs, contact the park district at 440-286-9516 or visit them online at www.geaugaparkdistrict.org.

Winter Solstice Candlelight Walk

Dec. 21, 7:30-9:30 p.m.

Among the longest-running programs Geauga Park District hosts, in its 26th year, the Winter Solstice Candlelight Walk is the kind of charming event that fast becomes a tradition for families. The walk takes place at The West Woods Nature Center, 9465 Kinsman Road in Russell Township.

Visitors begin the year’s longest evening indoors with hot cider and cookies homemade by volunteers, as well as sing-along opportunities with the accomplished Pilgrim Brass Choir, which has contributed traditional holiday music all 26 years of the program.

Then, head outdoors in volunteer-led groups of 40 to 50 to explore the roots of modern holiday celebrations, derived from ancient civilizations.

Expect to encounter five exciting stations to educate and entertain about the celebration of the longest night of the year, past and present. Cultures featured during the walk’s luminary-lit stations will include the origin of the Christmas tree; the Druids and their origins of mistletoe and holly; Native American traditions; and the Northern Barbarians and how they saw the solstice as the annual theft of the sun by the Frost Giants.

The free program, held at Swine Creek Reservation for 14 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. The last group will be sent onto the path at 9 p.m.

Due to limited parking, carpooling is highly recommended; overflow parking will be at ASM International, 9639 Kinsman Road, where a shuttle will offer prompt transport to the Nature Center.

Registration is not required.