Embracing the Winter Solstice: Simple Ways to Celebrate the Longest Night of the Year
The winter solstice is a powerful turning point, marking the longest night of the year and the slow return of the sun. It’s an invitation to honour both the stillness and the promise of brighter days ahead. As a person who really struggles with the long, dark and cold days I look forward to solstice as soon as the clocks change in November. I’m that person who has the fairy lights up all Winter, not just for Christmas…I’m talking all the way into February - can we petition to rename them Winter lights?
Whether you’re celebrating the Winter Solstice with family, friends, or solo, here are some meaningful ways to mark this ancient tradition and bring a little magic to your night.
1. Gather Around a Fire Pit
Fire has always been a big deal for solstice celebrations—it’s all about light, warmth, and transformation. If you’ve got a fire pit, grab some blankets, chairs, and wood, and set up a cozy outdoor spot. Invite your people over for storytelling, singing, or just sitting quietly and watching the flames.
Make it extra special by:
Writing down things you want to let go of from the past year, then safely burning them in the fire.
Toasting marshmallows or sipping mulled cider to stay warm.
Stargazing if it’s clear out—the winter constellations are amazing this time of year.
2. Create a Solstice Altar
If you’re staying inside, bring some solstice vibes in with a little altar. Use things like evergreen branches, pinecones, candles, crystals, or anything that feels meaningful to you. It’s a great spot to focus on your intentions and reflect on the past year and what’s ahead.
3. Cook Up Some Seasonal Comfort Food
Celebrate the season with food that feels warm and cozy. Think hearty soups, roasted veggies, homemade bread, and spiced desserts. Sharing a meal is such a lovely way to connect and honor the abundance around us.
For a little extra solstice flair, try:
A yule log cake as a nod to old fire rituals.
Pomegranate seeds for renewal vibes.
Herbal teas or wassail for a cozy drink.
4. Reflect and Set Intentions
The solstice is a perfect time to get introspective. Grab a journal and write about the highs and lows of the past year, what you want to leave behind, and what you’re hoping for in the new year. You can even write these intentions on paper and tuck them under a candle to symbolise bringing light to your goals.
5. Go for a Solstice Walk
Bundle up and head outside for a quiet walk. Notice the sounds, smells, and feel of winter around you. It’s such a grounding way to connect with nature and the solstice energy.
6. Share Stories and Traditions
Solstice is all about connection. Invite people to share stories, myths, or personal reflections about the season. If you’re on your own, dive into a good book or read about solstice traditions from different cultures—it’s fascinating stuff. I love to read ‘The Shortest Day’ by Susan Cooper with the kids, the illustrations by Carson Ellis are magical and it’s such a gorgeous book to read at bedtime.
7. Practice Gratitude
As you light candles or sit by the fire, take a moment to list what you’re grateful for. Focusing on gratitude helps keep the light in your heart, even on the darkest nights.
8. Make a Solstice Craft
Get creative with some solstice-themed crafts. Here are a few ideas:
Make a wreath from evergreen branches.
Craft some beeswax candles.
Create ornaments or decorations with natural materials like twigs, berries, and dried citrus slices.
Wrap It Up
End your solstice night with a moment of quiet—maybe meditate, sit in silence, or just reflect. Thank the darkness for its lessons and welcome the light that’s on its way back. Whether you go all out or keep it simple, taking the time to honour this moment can feel so nourishing.
Even in the longest night, the light’s never too far away. Here’s to soaking up the magic of the season and heading into the new year with intention and joy.
*all images shot for Shuttaford Barns on Dartmoor, if you’d like to see the rest of the images from this shoot you can read this post.
