Celebrate the winter solstice with a sunset walk at Police Point Park

By ANNA SMITH Local Journalism Initiative on December 10, 2024.

asmith@medicinehatnews.com

As the longest night of the year fast approaches, the Medicine Hat Interpretive Program is looking to celebrate this annual astronomical event with the public.

During the Winter Solstice Sunset Walk, attendees will start in the theatre, where they will observe a demonstration of the winter solstice. Chai, peppermint tea and hot chocolate will be available by $2 donation. From there, there will be discussion on how this astronomic event has been acknowledged by countless cultural traditions as understanding that seasonal change is essential for survival.

“The sunset walk will then focus on the importance of light for all living things as we visit a lookout point over the river,” said park interpreter Erika Derman. “Observing the sunset on the solstice is a way to recognize the role that energy has on ecosystems, as the solstice is the beginning of winter and the return of longer days.”

The event will take place Dec 21 from 3:30-4:30 p.m. at Police Point Park. Registration is encouraged for those who would like a warm drink, but is not necessary.

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