Events

Winter Solstice Arrives, Marking the Shortest Day of the Year December 21

Published

11 months ago

December 21, 2025

The winter solstice, which occurs each year in late December, marks the shortest day and longest night of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. This astronomical event signals the official start of winter and the gradual return of longer daylight hours.

The solstice happens when the Earth’s axis tilts farthest away from the sun, causing the sun to appear at its lowest point in the sky at noon. After the solstice passes, days slowly begin to lengthen, a shift that has been observed and celebrated by cultures for thousands of years.

Historically, the winter solstice has held deep cultural and spiritual significance. Ancient civilizations built monuments, including Stonehenge in England, aligned with the solstice sunrise or sunset. Many winter traditions, festivals, and seasonal celebrations around the world are rooted in this moment of transition — symbolizing renewal, reflection, and hope during the darkest time of the year.

Today, the winter solstice is often marked with quiet observances, nature walks, candle lighting, and seasonal gatherings. For some, it represents a time to pause and reflect; for others, it’s a reminder that brighter days are ahead.

While winter officially begins with the solstice, meteorologists note that the coldest temperatures often arrive weeks later due to lingering heat stored in the Earth’s surface.

As daylight slowly returns in the days ahead, the winter solstice stands as a reminder of nature’s rhythms — and the steady movement toward light once again.

Events

Congers Halloween Spooktacular October 31, 2026: Two Scare Experiences

Published

6 days ago

October 30, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

Congers Halloween Spooktacular 2026 Announces Halloween Night Hours and Two Scare Experiences

Halloween is getting spooky in Congers! Organizers of the Congers Halloween Spooktacular 2026 have announced the official date and hours for this year’s event, which will take place for one night only on Saturday, October 31.

After days of preparation and setup, organizers confirmed that the popular Halloween display will offer two different experiences, giving families and thrill-seekers an opportunity to enjoy the festivities at their preferred scare level.

Family-Friendly, Scare-Free Hours

Families and visitors looking for Halloween fun without the fright can stop by between 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.

During these hours, the attraction will offer a scare-free experience suitable for all ages. Organizers note that crew members may still be working around the property and putting the finishing touches on displays, but there will be no intentional scares during this time.

Full Scare Experience Begins at 6:30 p.m.

Once darkness falls, the full scare experience begins!

Starting at 6:30 p.m., visitors can experience the attraction’s more frightening side. Organizers say the event will continue until the line stops, allowing everyone waiting to have an opportunity to experience the Halloween scares.

Event Details

Event: Congers Halloween Spooktacular 2026
Date: Saturday, October 31, 2026
Scare-Free Hours: 1 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Full Scare Experience: 6:30 p.m. until the line stops
Location: 99 Highway Avenue, Congers, NY

Food Donations Requested

Visitors are also encouraged to bring a non-perishable food donation. All contributions will help support local charities and families in need.

Organizers say countless hours have gone into creating this year’s Halloween experience and are looking forward to welcoming the community.

With two experiences offered throughout the day and evening, the Congers Halloween Spooktacular promises one night of family-friendly Halloween fun and nighttime frights.

One night, two experiences, and plenty of scares!

Events

Nyack Halloween Parade 2026 Returns October 24 With Costumes and Floats

Published

2 weeks ago

October 23, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

The annual parade invites participants of all ages to march through the village as part of Nyack’s Halloween weekend celebrations.

Halloween festivities are set to take over the streets of Nyack on Saturday, October 24, as the village welcomes residents and visitors to its annual Nyack Halloween Parade.

Known for its creative costumes and festive atmosphere, the parade has been recognized by the Travel Channel as one of the Top 10 Halloween parades in the United States.

Participants are encouraged to put on their most daring, imaginative and spooky costumes and join the procession. Everyone is welcome to march, and those looking to take their Halloween spirit a step further can enter a float or participate in the costume contest for a chance to win prizes.

The parade is part of Halloweekend in Nyack, a broader celebration featuring a variety of Halloween-themed events throughout the village.

Other activities planned for the weekend include a nighttime cemetery tour, a science-fiction horror film festival and additional seasonal attractions.

With its mix of costumes, community participation and Halloween entertainment, Halloweekend offers an opportunity for families, friends and visitors to experience the festive atmosphere of the village.

The Nyack Halloween Parade takes place Saturday, October 24. Residents and visitors are encouraged to join the celebration and take part in one of the village’s signature Halloween traditions.