1) What is Solstice in the Park?
Solstice in the Park is a free, volunteer-run, community event to celebrate midsummer with song, dance, pageantry, ritual, and joyful folk culture. We will honor the turning of the stars, mark a beautiful tradition of public revelry, and build community.
2) When and where is it?
Saturday, June 21st from 4:00PM - Late
4:00-5:00 PM - Gather at Grand Army Plaza (Four Eagles Monument, Grand Army Plaza)
5:00 PM - Parade into Prospect Park toward Nellie's Lawn.
6:00 PM - Mythic pageant and folk dancing.
6:30 PM onward - An open picnic filled with small group activities — make flower crowns, explore bird flight, practice embroidery, sing together, meditate, dive into astrology, and take part in other inclusive rituals.
Frequently Asked Questions
3) Tell me more, what will it be like?
We’ll gather at the edge of the park between 4:00 and 5:00 PM. You’ll be invited to pick up a Solstice-themed prop — crafted by our volunteers — and connect with fellow Solstice revelers. At 5:00PM We'll parade with music, banners, and merriment toward Nellie's Lawn, where our Solstice festivities will take place.
At 6:00 PM on Nellie's Lawn, we'll share a grounding moment, followed by a short mythic pageant featuring live music, dance, and puppets. This will culminate in some simple, community folk dances and lots of opportunities to frolic, picnic, and play together.
As our gathering stretches into the longest evening of the year, there'll be small circles for reflection, connection, and learning — make flower crowns, learn about bird flight, practice embroidery, sing together, meditate, explore astrology, and participate in other rituals. Everyone is welcome. Come celebrate summer at Solstice in the Park!
4) Do I need to RSVP?
To help us prepare logistically, it is very helpful if you RSVP here, but it is not necessary to attend. All are welcome!
5) What should I wear and what should I bring?
Come wearing your summer solstice best: think flower crowns, sun dresses, and colors of nature. Anything that makes you think — “summer solstice festive!”
If you want to really turn it up, we welcome costumes and creative dress! Be inspired by the wildlife of the park (birds, flowers, trees, butterflies, or even fish) or perhaps tap into the astrological theme (metallic, stars, moon, sun).
Most importantly, come as you are!
Bring a picnic for yourself or friends and a drink or dish to pass if you wish.
6) More Questions?
Drop those here — and we’ll follow up with you.
6) Who's organizing this celebration?
Solstice in the Park is organized by a large group of creative volunteers. Over 30 folks have helped prepare for the festivities by building puppets, writing a solstice myth, rehearsing the pageant, sewing banners, preparing permits, raising funds, planning the music, assembling costumes, gathering footage, designing promotion materials, coordinating logistics, and much more! A big thank you to everyone who has contributed in small and big ways! Special thanks to:
Brianna Cayo Cotter
Cain Coleman
Cameron Mussar
Casper ter Kuile
Camille Baldwin\
Jonathan Zautner
Debbie Holloway
Elizabeth Cutler
Ingrid Norton
Jamie Roach
Jeff Hopkins
Jessica Daly
Joel Richardson
Jonathan Zautner
Kajal Odedra
Kristina Vaskys
Mara Rothman
Matt Goldstein
Matthew Chavez
Melanie Kahl
Rachel Schmitt
Sierra Gamble
Sofia Campoamor
Thanks also to Jakab, Vanessa, Meredith, and Amauta at Brooklyn Public Library for supporting the learning circles through their University Open Air Program and hosting our myth workshop!
Thanks also to Christin and Joe at Brooklyn Contra for loaning their amp and supporting the folk dancing.
Thanks to Maria and the team at the Prospect Park Alliance for welcoming this festival to the park.
And a special thanks to EarthStage Fund for supporting Solstice in the Park in memory of Sidney Jonas. We are grateful!