Night Hike: Winter Solstice Special

Enjoy a night hike at the Wilderness Center during the longest night of the year. Learn about the history of the winter solstice and why it is celebrated. Also enjoy a special holiday planetarium show after the hike.  After your show, weather permitting, join the Astronomy Club in TWC’s observatory to enjoy what the winter night sky has to offer through our telescopes.

Planetarium Show Description: Season of Light

Join us for this seasonal favorite. Explore the historical religious and cultural rituals practiced during the time of winter solstice — not only Christian and Jewish, but also Celtic, Nordic, Roman, Irish, Mexican and Hopi. Learn how these ancient rituals changed over time to become many of the world's most endearing Christmas and New Year’s holiday customs, all of which involve lighting up the winter season — from the burning Yule log, festive Christmas tree lights and sparkling candles in windows, to the lighting of luminarias and setting off fireworks in the American Southwest and the traditional ritual lighting of the Hanukkah Menorah.

• Plan to arrive at least 10 minutes before the show starts.
• PLEASE NOTE: For safety reasons, there is no late entry into the planetarium once the door is closed. No refund will be provided to registrants who arrive after the door is closed.

Terrain: up to 1.5 miles; on gravel, grass, and sloped trails; slow pace with limited visibility (red flashlights provided!). Weather appropriate attire and comfortable walking shoes are recommended.