Solstice Gatherings

What is a Solstice?

Combining the Latin words sol for “sun” and sistere for “to stand still”, the solstice is the point where the Sun appears to reach either its highest or lowest point in the sky for the year. Ancient astronomers came to know the day as one where the Sun appeared to stand still.

The solstice has traditionally been important in northern communities, where seasonal changes in sunlight appear very dramatic. In modern times, as our societies and economies become more disconnected from nature, these transitional times of year are significant for self-reflection and gratitude.

Why does NLL celebrate the solstices?

1. Not Ladylike prioritises connecting with nature over the status quo stance of domination over nature
2. Our current understanding and experience of the earth’s seasons is out of whack thanks to capitalism, and we want to get you back in whack
3. If we appreciate and value this beautiful planet we live on, we do more to lessen our impact on it; connection with nature in any way can aid that appreciation
4. Our mission is to bring you lots of options in alignment with our values for a third place to meet new folks and add to your circles of resilience

2025 Solstice Events

General info about our solstice events

There is a spiritual aspect to these events, but no religion is featured.

We design these events with the traditionally least considered at top of mind, and for all ages. All locations are wheelchair accessible, bike and bus friendly. All food is vegan, GF, and free of most common allergens. We request that you do not attend if you are feeling ill, or were recently exposed to illness. However you show up in the world, we welcome you! No assholes. 😉

You decide what activities you want to do! There will be high energy and low energy ones, like:

• Season-themed colouring pages
• Soft rituals, quiet reflection, guided meditation
• Ice breaker questions for a less intimidating way to meet new people
• Nature-themed crafting and scavenger hunt
• Singing and dancing
• Suitable for all ages and abilities

Yule – Winter Solstice

Yule offers a contemplative, cozy, wild option to the busy-ness and commercialism of modern-day Christmas. Have you heard of the Yule Cat? Or Krampus? Yeah, that one.

Sunday, December 21, 2025 from 3:30 to 6:30 pm, location TBC

Litha – Summer Solstice

All seasons are the best season, but summer is a little bit better. Come hang out with your Not Ladylike pals for a chill welcome to Summer! You’re welcome to come and go as you please, getting as much or little out of the evening as you want.

Paused for our 2025 Summer Vacation

Schedule of the evening

• Folks start showing up around 5:30 pm and get themselves settled; casual introductions amongst ourselves as people arrive
• At 6 pm Lisa will say a land acknowledgement, explain the purpose of the event, go through the rough schedule, and any announcements; food is served!
• People will continue arriving as the night goes on, and Lisa will introduce them to the group and help them find somewhere to sit and something to do
• At 7 pm we will do a sun-focused guided meditation
• We will start packing up at 9 pm

Please bring

• A blanket or lawn chair
• Beverages for you and your family, no alcohol

Park amenities

• Public washrooms
• Picnic benches and picnic shelter
• Boat launch and “beach”
• Paved trails
• Lots of parking