Uralla is set to shine under the stars on Saturday, June 21st with a magical evening of light, music, food, and culture at the “Winter Solstice in Uralla” celebration, hosted by Uralla Arts.
Held at the unique Constellations Sculpture Arena in The Glen, Barleyfields Road, the event runs from 4:30pm to 8:00pm and promises something for everyone—young and old alike.
And while lanterns are at the heart of the celebration, the evening offers much more.
“It’s more than a lantern festival,” Rob Hughes, Secretary of Uralla Arts said.
“There’ll be live music, nice food to eat, and we’ve invited a First Nations astronomer, Len Waters, who will provide an Aboriginal interpretation of the night sky. It will be an interesting and special night for people to gather together.”
Uralla’s well known Rocky Bottom Girls will provide the soundtrack to the evening with their lively music, creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere around the bonfire. Families and friends are encouraged to bring blankets and chairs, grab something tasty from the food stalls, and enjoy the festivities under what everyone hopes will be a clear night sky.
But even if the clouds roll in, stargazing is still on the agenda.
“If it’s not a clear night, the First Nations astronomer will do a presentation using a screen,” Mr Hughes said.
The event is set in a very fitting location -the Constellations Sculpture Arena – an outdoor park showcasing eight striking sculptures themed on various constellations like Scorpius and the Southern Cross.
“Various sculptors have interpreted different constellations to create these works, so it’s the perfect setting for this celebration,” Mr Hughes said.
This year’s event is organised entirely by Uralla Arts, shifting from a council-run initiative to a more grassroots, community-involved approach.
“We’ve gone for something standalone where people can just come, enjoy a great night with food, music, fire and the stars,” Mr Hughes said.
Entry is completely free, and the whole community is welcome to take part in this joyful and inspiring solstice celebration.
Event Details
When: Saturday 21st June, 4:30pm–8:00pm
Where: Constellations Sculpture Arena, The Glen, Barleyfields Road, Uralla
What’s On: Lantern Parade, Bonfire, Live Music, Naked Eye Stargazing, Food Stalls, and more!
For more information, visit the Uralla Arts Facebook page.
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