20Dec
Winter Solstice Bonfire DecemberDec 20 2024 05:00pm - 08:00pm15601 Hudson Rd. N, Lakeland, MN

 

Winter Solstice Bonfire

Friday, December 20
5:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Lucy Winton Bell Athletic Fields
Cost: $10, $20, or $35 per car (sliding scale)

Note: Advance tickets are no longer available. There will be a limited number of tickets available for sale at the door.

Join us for the Winter Solstice Bonfire, a celebration on the longest night of the year, at Belwin’s Lucy Winton Bell Athletic Fields. The evening will feature small campfires scattered throughout the landscape, live music, storytelling hikes for children 5 and under, and guided night hikes led by Belwin naturalists. The prairie labyrinth will be illuminated, and guests can warm up with cookies and cider in a heated tent.

Now a yearly tradition, the Winter Solstice Bonfire began in 2016 as a way for the community to connect during Minnesota’s coldest season. The bonfire is constructed from downed and damaged trees cleared throughout the year by local Afton business SavATree. The large bonfire is dependent upon weather conditions. Night hikes, performances, and small fires will take place regardless.

 Event Highlights:

  • Live Music: Imniza Ska Dakota Drum Group will bring powerful Dakota drumming and singing, followed by Vladimir Garrido-Biagetti performing South American folk music and dance, with plenty of opportunities for audience participation.
  • Guided Night Hikes: Hikes depart every 15 minutes starting at 5:15 pm. Jenny Hanlon from Stillwater Schools Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) will lead special storytelling hikes for children under five at 5:15 pm and 6:00 pm.
  • Warm Treats: Guests can enjoy cookies and cider, while supplies last, in a warming tent.

“It never ceases to amaze me how many people come out to play, hike, and just be together at this event,” says Angie Eckel, Belwin’s Development and Communications Director. “It's a rare opportunity to be outside together in the midst of a Minnesota winter.”

New this year: Tickets will be sold in advance on a sliding scale of $10, $20, or $35 per car. Tickets can be purchased from the link below.


Thanks to Our Sponsors

Location

Lucy Winton Bell Athletic Fields, 15601 Hudson Rd. N, Lakeland, MN

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Notice of Photography

Belwin events are often photographed and recorded for documentary and publicity purposes. By entering a Belwin event, you are agreeing to be filmed and/or photographed, and that the resulting assets may be used for promotional purposes.

COVID-19 Policy

Masking is optional at Belwin events. If you are not feeling well, we ask that you please stay home. Belwin reserves the right to ask anyone to leave if they are exhibiting symptoms of illness.

Cancellation Policy

If you are unable to attend an event, you may request a refund. Email events@belwin.org to request a refund. Cancellations received 7 days or more before the event will be fully refunded minus the PayPal transaction fee, which covers the cost of related administration. We are unable to provide refunds for registrations cancelled less than 7 days before the event. Thank you for your understanding. In the event that Belwin cancels the event, you will receive a 100% refund, minus the transaction fee. Refunds will be issued within 5 business days of cancellation notice.

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Afton, MN 55001
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