The Winter Solstice is the shortest day of the year, when the Earth’s axis tilts us the farthest from the sun we’ll be all year, giving us the least amount of daylight.
It also marks a turning point and the start of days ahead, each with a bit more light—something that feels promising and hopeful as we tie up this wild year.
This solstice moment has been marked in special ways and reflected in winter holidays around the world and throughout the ages. Full of the stuff that sparks joy and connections to the natural world — lights in the darkness, colors, circles and spirals, nature treasures.
We hope you will join us in the Big Red Barn, in a lantern walk through the forest, and gathering around the fire!
Never before in history have children been so plugged-in
– and so out of touch
with the natural world.
At Dinner Bell Farm,
we craft “learning in action” experiences –
combining discovery, activities, story, crafts, and celebrations
- weaving in the trees, plants, and animals that are our kin.
We offer ways of connecting which speak not only to the intellect, but also to the imagination and emotions.
We offer nourishment for
mind, body, and spirit
– head, heart, and hands.
At this time in the history of our planet, we need to renew our healthy relationship to the Earth.
There is such richness available in the friendships we can develop
with the natural world
and the other-than-human beings.
These experiences inspire and nurture a natural response to
love, care for, and protect
these beings and this precious Earth.
Families who spend time in nature develop strong bonds,
better communication and
incredible memories!
School, work and busy schedules can make it hard to find time
for nature.
We can help – connecting you to ideas, inspiration, and a community of people who are committed to spending quality time outdoors with the kids they care about.
Our Children’s Nature Events
at Dinner Bell Farm
are designed to lead you and your child(ren) out your door,
into the natural world
where myriad wonders are taking place all around you.
Our events are not rushed -
we build in time for
discovery and play.
We hope that our events and experiences here
will entice us all to go outside,
to play and interact
with the natural world,
and to celebrate
the different seasons of year.
Join us each month,
or whenever you can!
(See more details below)
Discover Early Signs of Spring
February 18 (Saturday)
2:00 - 5:00 pm
Spring Equinox
March 18 (Saturday)
3:30 - 5:30 pm
Summer Solstice Celebration
for Families
June 21 (Wednesday)
6:30 pm
Summer Farm Camp
Two Sessions:
July 30 - Aug 4
Aug 7 - 11
Autumn Equinox
Sept. 23 (Saturday)
5:30 - 8:00 pm
Winter Solstice Lantern Walk
Dec. 21 (Thursday)
4:00 - 6:00 pm