Solstice Celebrations

by Amy Virginia Evans

Since the beginning of time, long winter nights have challenged human character and resilience. This bleak season inspired the creation of rituals and crafts whose remnants survive today. Although science and technology have replaced the mystery and discomfort associated with bitter cold and darkness, the magic of the longest night of the year still remains---in the winter solstice. SOLSTICE CELEBRATIONS captures and rekindles that ancient wonder with a comprehensive guide to the season. Picture the terrifying Greek Kallikantzaroi as they emerge from the bowels of the earth to roam the dark night. Placate the Swedish gnome-like Nisser by leaving a warm bowl of rice pudding outside the kitchen door. Believe that the earnest and joyful Celtic wassailers will positively affect the orchard harvest. Keep the past alive by opening this book. Revive long lost customs. Incorporate decorations taken from nature. Make crafts and foods drawn from primal themes. Easy instructions and clear illustrations are your guide. SOLSTICE CELEBRATIONS tells you why and shows you how to make this winter a season of splendor.

270 pages, Paperback

Published June 13, 2017

About the author

Amy Virginia Evans lives in New England. Her eclectic career includes work as a political campaign consultant, United Way study author, child abuse investigation facility creator, corporate human resource generalist, book illustrator, Justice of the Peace, blogger, commercial actress, model, and voice talent. She has a B.A. in English from Boston University.

Reviews

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a treat this book is. For those who like to create solstice celebrations, those who like to attend them, those who wish they could attend one or those who just like to explore ancient traditions (especially the ones that gave birth to the traditions we have today) this book is a delicacy. Not only has the author researched the traditions, ceremonies, and celebrations of the past, she gives us recipes for the foods they prepared and directions for the crafts they made for them. This is a book to gift the person who likes to explore history, religion, and tradition.