What is the Solstice?

Ancient astronomers once believed that twice a year the sun appeared to stand still for a day. They called this the Solstice which comes from the Latin words “sol” meaning sun and “sistere” meaning to make stand. 

During the winter Solstice, lighting a fire or a candle often symbolizes the return of light and warmth from the sun. For thousands of years, people all over the world have celebrated and honored the Solstice as a way of respecting the Earth, celebrating nature, bestowing blessings, and expressing hope for a good year ahead. We have maintained these traditions at SOLSTICE, and we invite you to join us as we celebrate this annual event.

This year, we have invited Deirdre Pulgram Arthen, Executive Director of EarthSpirit Community and a certified Death Midwife, to speak to the cultural and social practices of the Solstice. We have also featured Bree Harvey, Mount Auburn’s VP of Cemetery & Visitor Services, to speak to the Cemetery’s history of celebrating the Solstice, and Sam Okerstrom-Lang, SOLSTICE Creative Director and MASARY co-founder, to speak to an artist’s perspective of this annual tradition.

Videos of Danielle and Deidre will be available in November 2024.

What does the Solstice mean to you?

Each year we invite members of the community to speak about their connection to Mount Auburn, their experience with the Solstice, with grief and loss, and/or the meaningful work they do.