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

Published

9 months ago

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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.

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Events

Free Nyack Urban Sketchers Meetup Set for Sept. 8

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4 weeks ago

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August 26, 2026

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The Nyack Urban Sketchers will hold their monthly meetup on Tuesday, Sept. 8, at the Nyack Library’s Creative Lab.

The free gathering will take place from 2 to 5 p.m. and offers participants an opportunity to come together and practice urban sketching in a creative, community setting.

The meetup is open to those interested in sketching and drawing, whether they are longtime urban sketchers or simply looking for a creative activity.

Event Details
Date: Tuesday, Sept. 8
Time: 2–5 p.m.
Location: Nyack Library, Creative Lab
Cost: Free

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Events

Italian Feast & Carnival Returns to Tappan Sept. 10–13, 2026

Published

2 months ago

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August 7, 2026

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One of the Hudson Valley’s largest celebrations of Italian heritage is set to return this September as the annual Italian Feast & Carnival takes over Masonic Park Fairgrounds in Tappan.

The four-day event will be held September 10–13, 2026, at Masonic Park Fairgrounds, 89 Western Highway, Tappan, conveniently located near the Palisades Parkway, Exit 5 South.

Organizers describe the festival as the largest cultural event in Rockland and Westchester counties, featuring authentic Italian food, carnival rides, games, family-friendly activities, and free live entertainment throughout the weekend.

The festival schedule includes:

  • Thursday, Sept. 10: 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.
  • Friday, Sept. 11: 5 p.m. to Midnight
  • Saturday, Sept. 12: Noon to Midnight
  • Sunday, Sept. 13: Noon to 9 p.m., with an Outdoor Mass at 10 a.m.

Guests can also enjoy a casino, a Super 50/50 Grand Prize Raffle, and a variety of attractions for all ages.

Admission is $10 per person, and free parking will be available on-site.

Festival organizers remind attendees that outside food and beverages, coolers, backpacks, and pets are not permitted on the grounds.

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