The winter solstice, the shortest day of the year, is a magical moment that marks the transition to longer days and the return of sunlight. In 2024, the solstice falls on Saturday, December 21. Celebrate this special day with your kids and create meaningful memories with these fun, family-friendly activities.
The solstice is just the start of winter fun in Des Moines! For even more seasonal inspiration, explore our Holiday Fun Guide or browse the Events Calendar for exciting activities throughout the season.
Here are some creative ways to honor and celebrate the winter solstice:
Decorate an Outdoor Edible Tree for the Animals
Instead of (or in addition to) decorating an indoor holiday tree, why not create a festive outdoor tree for your local wildlife? Craft biodegradable, edible ornaments like pine cone bird feeders or popcorn and cranberry garlands. Kids will love watching birds and critters enjoy the treats!
Need help getting started? Check out our guide, Enjoy Some Unplugged Family Time This Winter in Des Moines, for step-by-step instructions on making pine cone bird feeders.
Make Winter Lanterns
Winter solstice celebrates the return of light, making lanterns a perfect craft project. With supplies you likely already have at home, you can create simple or elaborate designs:
- Simple Version: Use brown paper bags, cut decorative patterns, and place a candle or LED tea light inside.
- Creative Version: Use mason jars, tissue paper, and Mod Podge to craft colorful lanterns.
Once completed, light up your lanterns to bring a warm glow to the longest night of the year.
Enjoy a Winter Solstice Storytime
The Forest Avenue Library invites families to a special Pajama Storytime on Thursday, December 19. Snuggle up in your coziest pajamas, bring a favorite stuffed animal, and enjoy stories about the solstice while sipping hot chocolate. Afterward, kids can create a winter landscape lantern to take home.
Go on a Winter Solstice Hike
Polk County Conservation is hosting a Winter Solstice Hike on Friday, December 20 at the Jester Park Nature Lodge. Celebrate the arrival of winter by joining a guided hike led by a naturalist. Bundle up, explore the beauty of nature, and learn about the solstice in a serene setting.
Make a Solstice-Inspired Snack
Celebrate the season with foods inspired by solstice traditions! Incorporate preserved fruits like figs, dates, apricots, pears, or apples into your snacks or desserts. Add warming spices such as cinnamon, ginger, cloves, or turmeric to create festive, flavorful dishes.
Local spots like the Iowa Food Co-op and AllSpice Culinarium are great places to stock up on fresh ingredients and spices.
