A winter Solstice drum circle

Winter Solstice Evening in the forest

A Communal celebration with sound, food and nature

Come for a beautiful evening in the yurt on Thursday, December 21st from 4:00pm - 10:00pm. And optionally stay overnight to Friday, December 22nd until 12:00pm.

See full schedule below.

Please bring any drums or other percussion-type instruments that you have. There will be a few extras for those who do not have one. Please email alexandralittaye@gmail.com if you wish to specifically inquire about what drums may be available.

about this practice

Drum circle rituals for the winter solstice have roots in various cultures and traditions worldwide, celebrating the longest night and the return of the sun. The history of these rituals is diverse and often tied to ancient practices. These rituals have evolved over time, drawing from ancient traditions and adapting to modern contexts. Today, drum circles during the winter solstice continue to be a way for people to celebrate, connect, and find meaning in the natural cycles of the Earth.

Drum circles have a remarkable ability to foster a sense of unity and communal spirit. For generations, these rhythmic gatherings have transcended cultural boundaries and geographical distances, bringing people together in a shared, primal connection to the heartbeat of the Earth. Whether in indigenous tribal ceremonies, modern music festivals, or spontaneous gatherings in parks, the pulsating rhythms of drums resonate with our innate sense of rhythm, promoting a sense of togetherness and harmony. Through the collective power of drumming, people find a unique channel for self-expression, release, and, most importantly, a profound bond with fellow participants, emphasizing the timeless and universal appeal of this ancient tradition.

Sliding scale payment

We’ll be offering payment for this experience on a sliding scale basis to ensure access for everyone. After registering below, you’ll be taken to a payment page where you can choose your amount.

You can pay any amount that suits your needs. Here are some recommendations:

  • Standard Rate: $50 This is the recommended rate, allowing us to provide programs, while helping us to steward and protect our 716 acre nature preserve. You may choose to camp overnight in your own tent or stay in one of our double occupancy canvas bell tents.

  • Sustainer Rate: $100 This is the recommended rate for those who can help support this work and allow us to pay it forward to others.

  • Day Retreat “It’s All Good” Rate: $30 This is gratefully accepted for those who can pay this amount as a show of the value exchanged and your support of the forest.

This is a bring your own food event. We will be doing this communally in a potluck style for the evening meal so please bring things to share. Vegetarian and vegan items only please. Please bring any necessary dishes and utensils to serve and share. If you are staying overnight then please bring your own food items for breakfast.

Please have each individual RSVP separately in order to agree to the waiver. You’ll find the schedule below. We look forward to seeing you in the forest!

Feel free to email bala@justloveforest.com with questions or for more information.

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What You may Expect

Join us for a day of enjoying and immersing yourself in part of the 716 acres of Just Love Forest.

  • 4:00pm: Arrive at meeting point (directions in email)

  • 5:00 - 5:30: Drumming 101 & Djembe Intro

  • 6:00pm: Potluck

  • 6:30pm: Optional face paint

  • 7:00pm: Drum circle

  • 10:00pm: Evening departure if leaving Saturday night

  • 12:00pm: Friday departure if staying overnight

Enjoy the fullness of the new moon at the summit of Bhakti Mountain.