Solstice gathering set for June 21

More sun, less night. That’s summer solstice in a nutshell. This year, it takes place Tuesday, June 21. Sisters Community Labyrinth invites the community to join in a free gathering at 7 p.m. that evening. Guests are encouraged to wear colorful clothes and hats; some hats will be provided for those who wish to decorate them.

Summer solstice is associated with feasts, fires, fecundity, and fairies. Marking the longest day of the year, it’s also called Midsummer’s Day. Shakespeare’s classic caper “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” riffs on the themes of scheming fairies and sprites, who use magic to interfere with each other and with the romantic shenanigans of humans.

Susan Prince, who often co-leads labyrinth gatherings, said she feels a deep connection to ancestors and to the earth’s natural rhythms when honoring “the passing of the seasons through ancient rituals.” Prince will help guide visitors in casual ritual and conversation on Tuesday.

Often, labyrinth walking is a contemplative activity, quiet and subdued. For summer solstice, a sense of celebration may reign. Folks are welcome to bring hand drums, bells, or musical instruments to accompany their walk.

Sisters Community Labyrinth encourages locals and visitors alike to participate. Everyone is welcome. For people who are unable to walk the coiling lanes, which are surrounded by low bits of shrubbery and flowers, a finger-labyrinth is installed at the opening.

The event will begin with a gathering at 7 p.m., followed by a labyrinth walk. The labyrinth is located in East Portal on West Hood Avenue. East Portal is the Forest Service site — soon to be a City of Sisters property — where Highway 20 and Highway 242 meet, roughly between Bi-Mart and Les Schwab.

The Sisters Labyrinth Committee maintains the labyrinth and hosts its gatherings, with Sisters Park and Recreation District providing fiscal and administrative infrastructure.