Early Saturday morning marks the beginning of the Winter Solstice, the shortest day and the longest night of the year. It marks the beginning of winter in the Northern Hemisphere.

It’s a tradition that goes back centuries, with many First Nations taking the time of year to celebrate with ceremony and community gatherings. There is an event being hosted in Regina on Saturday by the Buffalo People Arts Institute, with a pipe ceremony, talking circle, and feast.

The solstice marks the beginning of the season for reflection and the telling of stories.

“When I think about the winter solstice in this time of year that we call December, that others may call snow moon, frost moon, it’s really important to acknowledge those start stories,” said Joely BigEagle-Kequahtooway from the Buffalo People Arts Institute in a video she created with the Royal Saskatchewan Museum about what the Winter Solstice means for her.

“For me it’s important for us to gather because it’s a time when it’s cold outside. It’s a time for meditation, reflection, the time for family, for extended family, for ceremonies, dances, feasts, and giveaways.”

Learn more about the Winter Solstice by watching these videos
A look at the importance of the winter solstice
The Importance of Winter Solstice in Indigenous Culture
What the winter solstice means in the Cree tradition | Ask an Elder

And these articles
CBC Unreserved: How solstice is helping some Indigenous people reconnect to their land, families and traditions
NDN Collective: Acknowledging the Winter Solstice is a Decolonial Act for Indigenous People
Winter Solstice and what it means to Indigenous peoples