The Winter Solstice – also known as Yule – marks the point when the North Pole is tilted the farthest from the sun which results in the shortest day of the year. Thus, the sun starts to slowly return earlier the next day.
This year, the Winter Solstice takes place on Saturday, Dec. 21 at 3:21 a.m. (Central Time).
The holiday is rooted in ancient Paganism, but people of all religions – as well as those who do not practice any religion – celebrate the Winter Solstice simply as a time to enjoy winter both indoors and out.
For centuries, nations across the globe have recognized this as a time to reflect and embrace new beginnings. The celebrations are usually focused on nature’s offerings, candlelight and seasonal food and drink.
Here are 5 ways to celebrate Winter Solstice in Milwaukee:
1. Visit the Domes. The Holiday Show at the Domes runs through Sunday, Jan. 5, and is a wonderful way to take in nature (without being cold!) and revel in the season. The Domes are open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday and from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Get more info here.
2. Make soup, chili or stew and share it with family and/or friends. Whip out one of your favorite winter recipes and then share the creation with loved ones. Wanna get extra kitchen witchy? While stirring the soup, think positive thoughts for anyone who eats the soup. Or swing by your favorite soup spot and treat yourself to a bowl.
3. Bring more greenery into your home. Stop in your favorite plant shop and treat yourself to a new plant. I highly recommend Riverwest Grown, where the owner Nick can help you find the right plant based on the conditions of your living space. Read more here.
4. Go on a hike. Bundle up and take a hike at Seven Bridges Trail in Grant Park or Lion’s Den Gorge Nature Preserve in Ozaukee County. The Schlitz Audubon Center is hosting a Winter Solstice afternoon hike on Friday, Dec. 21 at 1:30 p.m. Find more information here.
5. Get hygge with it. The word "Hygge" – pronounced "hyoo-guh" – is a Norwegian term for "to comfort" or "to console." It's all about getting cozy in your own space. So put on your favorite lounge clothing, wrap up in a soft blanket in front of a fire or your TV show, and treat yourself to the satisfying simplicity of comfort and warmth.
Molly Snyder started writing and publishing her work at the age 10, when her community newspaper printed her poem, "The Unicorn.” Since then, she's expanded beyond the subject of mythical creatures and written in many different mediums but, nearest and dearest to her heart, thousands of articles for OnMilwaukee.
Molly is a regular contributor to FOX6 News and numerous radio stations as well as the co-host of "Dandelions: A Podcast For Women.” She's received five Milwaukee Press Club Awards, served as the Pfister Narrator and is the Wisconsin State Fair’s Celebrity Cream Puff Eating Champion of 2019.
