A new island tradition: Winter solstice luminary parade

Published 1:30 am Wednesday, December 11, 2024

A new island parade was born last year and it continues this year! On Dec. 21, at 5 p.m., the second “Be the Light” luminary parade commences. On the longest night of the year, the community will come together for a winter-themed event celebrating togetherness, resilience, joy, creativity and community as Orcas Island ushers in the colder, darker months.

The parade is for all islanders, all ages and anyone who would like to participate. The public is invited to bring a luminaria to carry in the parade, adorn in light and get creative. Or just come and simply walk. No motorized vehicles, livestock or written words. The parade begins at the same post as the Summer Solstice Parade — Haven Road and Main Street — and will follow a procession along Main Street, down Beach Road to the Village Green with lanterns and luminaries of all shapes lighting our collective path toward brighter days ahead.