Summer Solstice 2022

For the first time, we gathered in a magical spot in City Creek Canyon in Salt Lake City. The particular site we chose was one with a seemingly magical fairy portal, where a long branch of a tree arched over a stairway which led to a shady, secluded spot not far from the creek. It was the perfect place to spend the Summer Solstice.

Butterfly kin spotted at City Creek, Utah

This gathering almost immediately followed the Robb Elementary shooting in Uvalde, Texas. Noting the impact the event and subsequent news coverage was having on our community, we devoted the first part of the gathering to a discussion on community care. This provided space for processing, catharsis, and continued connection.

Hands weaving a flower crown

Following our discussion, we enjoyed our communal meal full of home-baked goods and salads. Afterwards, we wove flower crowns with greenery and florals brought from home. Once everyone was decked in daisies, we made our way to the maypole. The pole was made with wood and ribbons and was easily transportable thanks to the use of an umbrella stand. Against the background of a curated seasonal playlist, we learned the traditional ‘weaving’ dance for the maypole to create its beautiful braid.

The original Nourishing Kin maypole, constructed by Channing Parker

After our dancing festivities, we settled into a circle of rest for a meditation led by Channing. In the spirit of Shakespeare’s ‘Midsummer’s Night Dream,’ Bergen then led a presentation and discussion on dream interpretation. We dreamt, danced, and delighted as the sun set on the solstice day, then packed our belongings up and headed home with the spirit of the sun in our hearts.