By Kristin Bednarski
Sun staff

Residents from Clermont County and beyond attended the Winter Solstice Celebration at Cincinnati Nature Center’s Rowe Woods Dec. 15.

The celebration included hiking, horse-drawn wagon rides, a scavenger hunt, refreshments, musical performances, crafts and more.

Kristi Masterson, director of marketing and membership at the nature center, said the celebration was excellent this year.

“It’s been a great mix of people,” Masterson said.

She said everyone seemed to be enjoying the different activities as well a skit that was performed to educate guests about winter solstice.

“It’s a fun educational skit about the history of winter solstice, the religious attribution, along with the seasons,” Masterson said.

Winter solstice is the shortest day of the year, a traditional time for midwinter celebrations in many cultures around the world.

The event at the nature center incorporated the traditions associated with winter solstice throughout history, including a drumming circle demonstration.

Residents and members who attended the event said they enjoyed the festivities and enjoyed being at the nature center.

“We had a really good time,” Laura Davis, of Mason, said. “There was lots of stuff for the kids to do.”

Ed and Barb Schreiber, of Milford, planted a winter blooming narcissus bulb during the event. The bulbs were available for guests to plant, take home, or give as gifts.

Musical entertainment at the event included Patti Walker and Bill William who played the dulcimer and mandolin for guests, Dark Moll, a Celtic music band, and the Northern Kentucky University Clermont County Youth Orchestra.

“This is the second year we’ve played here,” Walker said about the celebration. “I like that we play in a spot where kids can come up an ask us questions. It’s the interacting I really like.”

Melissa Wilson, a Milford resident, brought her daughter Juniper to the event, and said they enjoy spending time at the nature center.

“It is festive and magical and a lot of fun for all ages,” Wilson said about the Winter Solstice Celebration. “We really love it here.”

The Cincinnati Nature Center hosts a variety of programs and events throughout the year. For more information visit www.cincynature.org.