WHAT IS...
Solstice
Lantern Walk?
Solstice Lantern Walk is an annual winter-themed event and a cherished community tradition in Hillsborough, NC.
Participants are invited to craft a handmade lantern before the event and gather at Hillsborough's Farmers Market Pavilion (144 E. Margaret Ln) in celebration of the Winter Solstice! You can learn more about Solstice Lantern Kits, Workshops, and more resources for crafting your lantern here.
Participants are invited to take part in a meditative procession along Eno River’s Riverwalk trail, lighting our collective path toward warmer, brighter days ahead.
Thanks to the generous support of Hillsborough's Tourism Board, the North Carolina Arts Council, Business Sponsors, and Individual Sustainers, HAC is thrilled to host Solstice Market as a part of the annual Solstice Lantern Walk.
Solstice Market takes place, 5-8 PM, under Hillsborough's Farmers Market Pavilion and features local artists, live music & performances, interactive activities, hot drinks, and warm food for all to enjoy around the lantern walk.
Registration is required to attend this event to support crowd management and grant reporting for the Hillsborough Arts Council. This event is free with a Suggested Donation of $5-10 per participant.
We encourage visitors to explore historic Hillsborough and continue Solstice celebrations throughout the Winter Season, supporting local artists and Hillsborough businesses.
Hillsborough’s Lantern Walk joins countless other solstice observations around the world and throughout history. Thousands flock to Stonehenge to watch the sun rise with exquisite precision through the towering megaliths. Iranians observe Yalda, an ancient Persian festival marking the power of light over darkness, by staying awake past midnight, reading poetry, and eating dried nuts and fruits. Some Native American tribes perform rituals to honor the sun and invoke agricultural prosperity for the coming spring. Solstice rituals underscore that all things are passing — no matter how dark things may get, brighter days are ahead.
Bridget Booher
Our State Magazine, 2020
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Photos & Videos
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2022 Moon Man Mini Doc
Edited and directed by Zola Ramirez & Sol Ramirez of 1,2,3 Puppetry.
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