We are reminded that the dark days are behind us with the beginning of winter on December 21. Immediately following the solstice, the light returns – bringing life-giving renewal for both people and plants.

Observe the solstice with Indigenous singers Mike Enis (Tohono O’odham) and Phil CashCash (Cayuse/Nez Perce).  Enjoy beverages from Masad Coffee and frybread from Mel Ortega. Make sustainable holiday garlands and decorations with citrus from the Garden.

Observing the Winter Solstice

9:30-9:45 am Traditional singing – Mike Enis

9:45-10:00 am Traditional singing – Phil CashCash

10:30-12:00pm Sustainable holiday decorations

Phil Cash Cash speaks of the winter solstice, “In our Nez Perce language, we have the word Ipneetemetskiliktet’eeese, which translates as ‘rotating on axis, the earth is turning itself’ in reference to the shift in the earth’s rotation as it starts to gather light in the new year. In our homeland, and even here in the desert, this is a sacred moment for all life across the earthly realm, especially for our traditional foods. In our ritual life, we acknowledge and honor this new light as life.”