1106 N. Central Ave.
Phoenix, AZ 85004
602-258-0109 www.azirish.org
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Irish Cultural Center 1106 N. Central Ave. Phoenix, AZ 85004 602-258-0109 www.azirish.org |
This year’s Solstice celebrations at the Irish Cultural
Center in Phoenix are anticipated to draw a larger attendance than past
years, particularly since celebration of the occasion falls on the evening
of Saturday December 22nd, and those attending won’t have to deal
with normal rush hour traffic.
Solstice, now as in ancient times, marks the longest night of the year,
whereby the Sun is at its lowest elevation in the sky. The return of
the Sun from its most southern position on the horizon has always been
of great ceremonial significance, in addition to serving as a celestial
clock. In Phoenix the occasion is marked by music and poetry. Ribbons
are placed on the branches of the special Ribbon Tree, to spiritually
unite us with those no longer here. A parade from the hunger memorial
on site takes us to the bonfire where the Grove of the Rising Phoenix
shares their ritual traditions. This year, the customary special Irish dinner, prepared by chef Steven
will be served starting at 4:00 p.m. Note, that reservations for the
food are required, call 602-258-0109. Outside ceremonies start at sunset
(5:25 p.m.) WHAT: Solstice celebrations The occasion now as in ancient
times marks the longest night of the year. For people living in Ireland,
this could mean having darkness for as many as seventeen hours. So it
is understandable why the first farmers who arrived Ireland over 5,000
years ago, so eagerly awaited evidence from within the passage tomb
called Newgrange, in county Meath, for signs that the sun had started
to return from it's annual southern migration. The penetration of light
from the rising sun into the central chamber at Newgrange on December
21 had great ceremonial significance for the Irish and others in pre-historic
times, in addition to serving as a precise celestial clock for those
early farmers. Songs and poetry illuminate the longest night of the year. The vigil
fire illuminates the monument, An Gorta Mor. We proceed to the Ribbon
Trees and honor those no longer here to enjoy the fruits of life. By
placing ribbons on the branches of this special tree(s), those dearest
to us, but who are no longer here, can rest in knowing that their passing
and suffering will long be remembered by those of us who care. Afterwards,
the firelight guides us to the Great Hall where we feast and enjoy the
music of our heritage. To help raise funds and food for the needy, we will be placing ribbons
on the "Ribbon Tree" being introduced for the first time this
year. Also, those wishing to drop off non-perishable food items at the
Irish Cultural Center may do so between now and the Solstice event on
the evening of December 21 st . This year, the Irish Cultural Center welcomes Grove of the Rising Phoenix,
a Ár nDraíocht Féin (ADF) affiliate located in
Arizona. They will present a Winter Solstice ceremony celebrating the
return of the light. See a Celebration
of the Sun or www.azirish.org
or call 602-258-0109
Fri.
DEC. 22 - WINTER SOLSTICE PARTY AT ICC
WHERE: Irish Cultural Center, 1106 N. Central Ave., Phoenix.
WHEN: Saturday December 22nd, starting 4:00 p.m.
COST: $12. includes dinner. $6.00 for presentations only.
The Winter Solstice is the shortest day of the year and has special significance
in Irish history. "The Megalithic Passage Tomb at Newgrange was built
about 3200 BC. The passage and chamber of Newgrange are illuminated by
the winter solstice sunrise. A shaft of sunlight shines through the roof
box over the entrance and penetrates the passage to light up the chamber.
The dramatic event lasts for 17 minutes at dawn from the 19th to the 23rd
of December". www.knowth.com/newgrange.htm.
Solstice, now as in
ancient times, marks the longest night of the year, whereby the Sun is
at its lowest elevation in the sky. The return of the Sun from its most
southern position on the horizon has always been of great ceremonial significance,
in addition to serving as a celestial clock. In Phoenix the occasion is
marked by music and poetry. Ribbons are placed on the branches of the
special Ribbon Tree, to spiritually unite us with those no longer here.
A parade from the hunger memorial on site takes us to the bonfire where
the Grove of the Rising Phoenix shares their ritual traditions.
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