Annual Solstice Celebration Lantern Walk

Each December, the Winter Solstice marks the beginning of the winter season in the Northern Hemisphere, and the longest night of the year. This astronomical event is significant to many cultures, religions, and traditions, for many different reasons. For the Hillsborough, NC community, it has become a beautiful evening to gather and recognize the peaceful quiet that the darker, colder months of the year can bring.

 

The Solstice Lantern Walk, which will take place at 5:45PM on December 21, 20018, is a non-denominational winter event that encourages creativity and community participation. Individuals are asked to bring a handmade lantern that lights up,to guide them along the walk. Participants will gather at the Farmer’s Market Pavilion be led on a procession along the path of the Riverwalk in Hillsborough, looping around and ending at the Weaver Street Parking deck.

Along with the Lantern Walk, the Hillsborough Arts Council (HAC) announces that they will be saying farewell to the beloved Patrick Dougherty Stickwork installation, A Sight to Behold, this winter. Due to the ephemeral nature of the organic materials used, the lifespan of Dougherty’s work is expected to be about two years; Hillsborough has been lucky to enjoy A Sight to Behold for more than three. HAC is asking the community to join them in saying farewell to A Sight to Behold as part of the Solstice Lantern Walk on December 21 at 5:45PM.

This event is free (donations welcome) and public participation is encouraged. The Hillsborough Arts Council does require all participants to register in advance.

Link to Register:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSefJUz8UF0eC-C09HYfL_2BLyfBJnGTvNm9Vgk7N3IjCqR78Q/viewform?usp=sf_link