6/21/20 4:15am update: There is heavy mist on the ridge, but I will be in the circle to see what happens at sunrise. Any who can join, please do – and drive carefully in this fog!
6/20/20 4:15am update: THIS EVENT IS CANCELLED DUE TO RAIN! So sorry we cannot meet the sun today in the Circle! Happy Solstice! p.s. if the weather holds promise tomorrow, we will meet on 6/21/20 at 5:15 instead!
Every Summer Solstice, we stand and greet the sun as it enters the Great Stone Circle at sunrise. You are invited to join us as we recognize the passing of the seasons from Spring to Summer in this auspicious and sacred stone place.
If it is not raining we will gather at 5:15 am in the Great Stone Circle in time to witness the rising of the sun – actual sunrise is at 5:23am but it is usually 5:30 before it visible in the stone circle. Due to COVID, we prefer not to meet indoors, so, if it is raining, we will CANCEL the event.
Given fair weather and a clear horizon, we will watch the sun as it crests the ridge and is ushered through the Summer Solstice Corridor into the circle. It will set its golden glow upon anyone standing in the middle of the circle. Further, it will cast the shadow of those persons standing there onto the stone directly in the path of the sun – the “Shadow Stone”. Fun fact: This stone also marks the exact point of WINTER Solstice SUNSET, i.e. summer solstice sunrise and winter solstice sunset occur along the exact same line! Truly magical!
Given cloudy weather, we will not see the sunrise or the shadow, but will greet the dawn of Summer ceremoniously regardless! This will be a quiet, meditative event with a short opening rite and reading. Feel free to bring a reading or quote to share. Witness the arrival of Summer. Send Spring on its way with blessings. Although the actual sunrise is at 5:23am, the topography of Kinstone means it will be just a little (about 8-10 minutes) later than that. Be there early, just in case! Feel free to arrive as early as 5:00am if you wish. We will NOT meet afterwards for refreshments due to COVID.
COST: Suggested Donation of $5/person (place in Blue Payment Box on the Information Sign Boards near the parking areas); No Registration Required
Date: Saturday, June 20, 2020 Time: 5:15am – 6:15am
This event is outdoors. It will be CANCELLED if raining. Please note that we will not see the alignment if it is cloudy or if the horizon is obstructed by morning mist, fog, rain, or clouds. If it is raining or storming this event will be cancelled. Dress for the weather, be prepared to walk dewy, wet grass paths; bring a blanket or camp chair if you wish for your comfort outside; wear appropriate footwear, scarves, hats, and even gloves if needed! Bring your own insect repellent if you wish!
Cancellation will occur in case of a RAIN. Cancellations will be posted ONLY on THIS event page and on the corresponding Facebook event page at least 1 hour before the scheduled start time for this event.
Interesting fact: The exact time of the astronomical Summer Solstice is Saturday, June 20 at 4:43 pm CDT.
IMPORTANT: If you wish to wander the grounds of Kinstone please plan to pay regular admission. Thank you.
Photo credit: Kristine Beck
