Celebrate the Winter Solstice

Olana is once again offering the opportunity to celebrate the Winter Solstice and welcome the returning of the light.

The Olana Partnership and New York State Parks invite the community to join in celebrating the changing season during its annual Winter Solstice Celebration at Olana State Historic Site. Visit the site on Saturday, December 20, from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. to experience the Hudson Valley's beautiful winter landscape through free indoor and outdoor activities and events.

The Winter Solstice Celebration will include free access to the historic interiors, a bonfire, seasonal storytelling for families, a winter choir performance by Catskill High School musicians, refreshments for purchase from Citiot in Catskill, a special visit from everyone's favorite miniature donkey, Hank (back by popular demand), and much more! Special events will take place throughout the afternoon at both the Frederic Church Center for Art & Landscape and the East Lawn near the historic house.

Nature Sarah will lead family friendly, drop-in nature walks along Olana's historic carriage roads. She will also lead hands-on activities designed to give audiences of all ages an understanding of the science of snow and ice and a deeper appreciation for winter weather.

The Olana Partnership's educators will be facilitating winter-themed art activities throughout the day in the Wagon House Education Center. The educators will also gather around the bonfire for a special book reading focusing on how cultures from around the world celebrate the winter solstice. The story hour will be provided in English and Spanish. . . .

The Catskill cafe Citiot will be on site providing seasonal refreshments like hot cocoa, coffee, and delicious baked goods to get visitors in the winter spirit. Nine Pin Ciders, also based in Catskill, will be providing full and half pours of everyone's favorite Hudson Valley hard cider. Non-alcoholic sparkling cider will be available as well.

Discover the global treasures of Olana's Main House interior in your own time for free throughout this special community event. Enjoy free access to Olana's historic interiors during this self-guided opportunity. House entry will be available on a first come, first served basis.

Generous support for Olana's Winter Solstice Celebration is provided by Art Bridges Foundation's Access for All program. To learn more, visit OLANA.org/solstice.