Boston Winter Solstice Walk Under the Stars

Boston Winter Solstice Walk Under the Stars

Date: Monday, December 21st
Time: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Location: Christian A. Herter Park, Brighton, Boston, MA

Address: 1255 Soldiers Field Rd, Boston, MA 02135

🌌 Welcome the Chill of Winter

The Charles River is a beautiful place to welcome the chill of winter air to Boston. Join us in a celebration of the first day of winter as we admire and appreciate Boston’s urban nature under the light of the moon and the stars.

This evening is a chance to connect with others who care about resilience and the natural world, and to experience a beautiful piece of urban nature. Walkers will have the opportunity to learn about The Resilient Activist, including how to get involved and stay connected.

The evening will include a mix of mindful moments and time to walk and talk, appreciating the peace and quiet that the colder months bring.

📍 Where to Meet

We will meet right outside of the Artesani Playground Wading Pool and Spray Deck by the Artesani Playground sign. Photo below.

Address: 1255 Soldiers Field Rd, Boston, MA 02135

Ways to get here:

• Drive: Park in the lot at Christian A. Herter Park.

• Bike or Walk: Follow the Charles River path (depending on where you are coming from, this may or may not be a good option in winter).

• Public Transit: Take the 70 or 86 bus to the Western Ave & Everett St stop and walk 5 minutes over the pedestrian bridge over Soldiers Field Road to the Artesani Playground Wading Pool and Spray Deck.

📝 General Agenda

• 6:00 PM: Walkers arrive and find the meeting spot.

• 6:10 PM: Quick round of introductions.

• 6:15 PM: We start the walk! (Please note: If you do not arrive at the meeting point by 6:15 PM, you will likely miss the walk).

• 6:15 PM – 7:15 PM: Nature-based activities integrated into the walk.

• 7:15 PM: The walk concludes back at Herter Park (hopefully we will catch a lovely sunset).

• 7:15 PM – 7:30 PM: Walkers can continue conversations, admire the stars, and enjoy one another’s company in the park.

🧥 What to Expect & Good to Know

• Rain/Snow Policy: This is a Rain or Shine event. We will only cancel if there is severe weather or unwalkable paths. You will be notified of any cancellations at least 8 hours before the event via email.

• Dress for the weather: Bring layers (jackets, hats, gloves). Guests are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking around.

• Visibility: We will be walking in the dark, so please feel free to bring a flashlight and/or wear reflective clothing if you would like to.

• Terrain: Most of the walk is wheelchair accessible with paved sidewalks. However, please note that some areas may require moving through muddy grass, rocky trails, or icy spots.

• Hydration: Feel free to bring a water bottle.

• Children & Pets: Children are welcome with an accompanying adult. Pets are welcome if they are on a leash.

• Restrooms: There may or may not be a restroom available. It depends on if the park keeps the porta potties in the park during the colder months.

🌿 Potential Activity: Nature Sit Spot

During the walk, we may pause to find a stationary spot to sit for 5–10 minutes. We will focus our attention on a single natural element—such as watching a leaf sway or a bug moving—to anchor our minds and connect with the winter landscape.

About The Resilient Activist

The Resilient Activist is a nonprofit resource dedicated to building resilience, optimism, and hope in response to the impacts of the climate crisis through community building, deep nature-connection, education, and sustainable engagement. Your attendance helps bring The Resilient Activist community together — this evening is a chance to connect with others who care about resilience and the natural world, and to experience a beautiful piece of urban nature.

Our Event Leader: Gina Bates

Gina Bates is a Boston resident and Board Member of The Resilient Activist. Gina is eager to find opportunities to explore urban nature with her community. She is excited to share her beloved sunset walking route with neighbors and friends. Gina often approaches nature walks with attentiveness, thoughtfulness, and mindfulness, and she recognizes that noticing nature positively impacts mental health and well-being.