Have you ever noticed how in the middle of winter here in the Pacific Northwest, the days feel super short and gray, and the rain seems endless? That’s all thanks to the winter solstice, a special day that falls on Sunday, December 21st, 2025 this year. It’s the shortest day and longest night of the year, but don’t worry, after this day, the daylight slowly begins to return, and the rain eventually lets up (we hope!).
The winter solstice is more than just a date on the calendar; it’s a time for hope, wishes, and a sprinkle of magic. People around the world celebrate this celestial event, and for folks here in the PNW, it’s a perfect excuse to cuddle up, enjoy the great outdoors, and reconnect with nature.
12 Wishes to Welcome the New Year
One heartwarming winter solstice tradition is writing 12 wishes for the year ahead. Here’s a simple way to do it at home:
- Gather Your Supplies- Grab a piece of paper and a colorful pen or marker.
- Make Your List- Write down 12 wishes or goals you hope to see come true in the coming year. Don’t hold back! Whether you dream of exploring a new hiking trail, trying paddleboarding, or mastering your favorite comfort food, every wish matters.
- Burn Your Wishes- With an adult’s help, carefully burn one wish each day from Winter Solstice to New Year’s Eve. Use a bowl, fireplace, or safe outdoor fire pit. Remember — don’t peek at the wishes you burn!
- Watch the Magic- On New Year’s Day, you’ll have one final wish. This one stays with you to focus on and work toward throughout the new year.
Winter Solstice in the Pacific Northwest
- Short, Moody Days- In the PNW, we often experience cloudy skies, misty mornings, and drizzly evenings during the solstice. These conditions make cozy indoor activities, like curling up with a book, crafting, or baking, especially delightful.
- Nature is Magical- The region’s tall evergreens, lush mossy forests, and snow-capped mountain peaks create a picturesque winter wonderland. Keep an eye out, you might even spot early snowberries, pinecones, or animal tracks.
- Local Celebrations- Many communities in the PNW celebrate solstice traditions with lantern festivals, bonfires, and candlelight walks. Check out this event. But even if you can’t attend significant events, you can create your own mini version at home with friends and family!
Winter Solstice Activities for Kids in the PNW
Looking for fun ways to celebrate without leaving home? Here are some engaging activities you can do:
- Craft Your Own Lighting– Make a pinecone lantern or a sun catcher to brighten up those long winter nights. Or try making this fun jar lantern. They’re fun and add a touch of light indoors!
- Explore Nature– Venture out for a rainy-day nature walk, look for unique moss, colorful mushrooms, and the chirping birds in your neighborhood park. Notice how the landscape transforms in winter!
- Cozy Storytime– Create a warm indoor storytime atmosphere with blankets, hot cocoa, and your favorite books. Invite family members to share their favorite winter tales.
The winter solstice in the Pacific Northwest reminds us that even when the days are short and rainy, light always returns. It’s a perfect time to reflect, dream big, and celebrate the breathtaking beauty around us, from the mossy forests to the snow-capped mountains.
So grab some paper, write those 12 wishes, light a cozy fire, and let the magic of the solstice fill your heart, even if it’s raining outside!
Johanna is married with two kids, three dogs, three cats, one leopard gecko, several chickens, and a few fish. She has been in the Pacific Northwest since the dream was alive in the 90s but has Southern roots and hails from Arkansas. The family spends a lot of time at some sort of sporting event for the kids. Johanna likes to fast craft, garden, host parties, and bake. Johanna and her crew go hard traveling, DIY-ing, and are always up for a new adventure or challenge.