Traditionally on the Winter Solstice, the longest night of the year, people stayed awake all night, keeping a bonfire burning, in an effort to call the sun back.

We have a bonfire at our Solstice celebration too, but for me, the important thing that we are calling and creating is community.

The Sixth Annual Solstice Potluck Celebration is all about gathering with your friends and neighbours, sharing some wonderful food, watching the kids arriving at the hall in a lantern procession, chatting around the fire, and enjoying the entertainment of talented locals. The Solstice night is all about creating the magic of community.

It’s that community magic that supports us when we are sick, and need an extra meal, or when the farmers have produce to spare, and volunteers turn it into soup for the community. It’s the magic that happens when you need something picked up in town, insulin brought from the vet, or help when you need your kids looked after for a couple of hours while you work. It’s the magic of a community of people who go beyond all the time.

That magic, the magic of the season, is something that exists all year on Galiano. It’s the magic of a community that works hard to take care of all its citizens.

The Solstice Potluck Celebration is a recognition of that magic. Dozens of volunteers work to prepare food, help the kids making their lanterns, build the bonfire, decorate the Hall, provide the entertainment, and clean up. Dozens of people come together to create something we all can enjoy. Contact the Galiano Food Program to find out how you can share your enthusiasm, talents and skills for this wonderful community celebration. Everyone is welcome to join in.

(Photo by henny.ca)