BALDWINSVILLE — Winter Solstice marks the longest night of the year in the earth’s northern hemisphere. Many cultures celebrate the coming of warmer weather and longer days that hearken back to when most people farmed the land. Many cultures hold some sort of celebration, religious or otherwise, helping people to thrive during the cold winter months.
Here at the library, we enjoy the opportunity to spread holiday cheer to you through our wonderful decorations and events.
The Woodworkers of Central New York have provided us with a spectacular display of their toys and artwork. Stop in and enjoy their talents.
Our children’s librarian has scheduled opportunities for children to read to our friend, Daisy. Check our online calendar to schedule a time to spend with our special canine friend. Also in the children’s department, pick up a craft kit that your child can build as a gift for someone special.
At the closing of this year, take time to appreciate the many good things in your life and enjoy the winter holiday season. Whether you celebrate or not, it is a good time to remember that everyone has unique traditions and points of view.
Did you know that the Hopi people, Native Americans from the northern Arizona area, celebrate Soyal? In Hopi mythology, the Kachinas come down from their home in the San Francisco Peaks to give the sun back to the earth. The Katsinam or Kachinas, are spirits that guard over the Hopi. During the Soyal Ceremony on the day of the winter solstice, they dance. The Soyal Ceremony, (Soyaluna or Soyalangwul), means “renewing life for the world.”
The Omisoka is a Japanese tradition that occurs on the last day of the year. On this day, people eat soba (buckwheat) noodles, which are easily broken. This symbolizes the breaking of a “string of bad luck.” They also thoroughly clean their houses to be ready for the new year.
In Iceland, there are 13 Santas instead of just one. These 13 Yule Lads are sons of the evil troll woman, Grýla, and for 13 days, cause mischief and mayhem up until Christmas Eve. Some of their tricks include stealing sausages and candles or giving small gifts like sweets to good children and raw potatoes to naughty ones.
Latvia, a country bordered between Lithuania and Estonia and across the Baltic Sea from Sweden, has a more carnival-like holiday season. The tradition of bright colors and parties serves to drive out evil spirits from the home. Kekatas or mummers are jokers costumed as animals who spread good wishes for a prosperous new year.
Stop in and ask the friendly librarians for more information on the many different traditions and cultures celebrated during the winter months. Our staff will send you home with a holiday smile.
If you have any questions, contact the library at [email protected] or call 315-635-5631.
