Backyard Winter Solstice Activities for Families
Tomorrow, Saturday June 21st, is the Winter Solstice, when the Earth tilts furthest from the sun, giving us the shortest day and longest night of the year. It might pass quietly for some, but for thousands of years, people across the world have seen this as a powerful moment to slow down, gather together, and celebrate the return of light. From ancient stone circles like Stonehenge to Norse Yule festivals, midwinter traditions have always been about warmth, hope, and togetherness.
As the sun sets at 5 p.m. tomorrow, instead of heading inside to bunker down for the evening, why not try a few solstice activities to turn the longest night into a special memory for your little family and start a new tradition rooted in the old ways.
Here are three outdoor solstice activities that are easy to do at home and are extra special for kids.
1. Nature Spiral Walk
Collect things from around your yard or neighbourhood — leaves, pinecones, shells, gumnuts, small sticks — and lay them out in a spiral on the ground.
At dusk, invite the kids to walk slowly into the spiral holding a candle or lantern. They can think about something they’re grateful for, something they’re ready to let go of, or a memory from the year so far.
At the centre, they place their candle and walk back out. One by one, the spiral lights up — a beautiful way to show how we carry light through darkness.
2. Pass the Flame: A Circle of Gratitude
Light a single candle or lantern, and gather in a circle around a backyard fire, or even just on a picnic blanket.
Pass the flame from person to person. As each child receives it, they name one thing they’re thankful for — a person, a moment, a place, or a feeling. At the end, bring all the lights together in the centre.
This activity builds connection, confidence, and emotional awareness — and it's really lovely to witness.
3. Five Finger Gratitude
Great for littlies who might find big ideas a bit tricky, this hands-on activity helps them find wonder in the everyday.
Hold up one hand, and use each finger to name something they're thankful for:
Something they can see
Something they can smell
Something they can taste
Something they can hear
Something they can touch
It might be the smell of woodsmoke, the crunch of leaves, or the sweetness of a marshmallow. It all counts.
The Winter Solstice isn’t just about cold nights and early sunsets. It’s an ancient reminder to slow down, honour the quiet, and share warmth wherever we can.
Whether you’re gathered around a fire pit, a circle of tea lights, or just sharing stories under the stars, these small, meaningful moments help kids feel connected to the world around them.
Happy Winter Solstice
Curious about how your child could benefit from a deeper connection with the natural world?
Venture into the wild with us and secure your child’s spot in one of our School Holiday programs in Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia.