Willamalane celebrates winter holidays in new ways

SPRINGFIELD – Willamalane has reimagined favorite winter traditions so families can still celebrate the season safely from home. 

Winter Solstice Celebration

In years past, Willamalane celebrated winter solstice with a popular annual outdoor event featuring traditions from many different cultures. This year, Willamalane is offering Winter Solstice kits for families to enjoy as they celebrate at home instead. The kits are filled with items usually featured at the in-person event, including crafts, scented flowers, coloring pages, recipes, and traditional drink mixes. The kit will also include information on the meaning of the winter solstice and an exclusive video to three special performances of solstice-themed storytelling.

Activities for families

Willamalane is offering candy house kits that families can assemble at home. Families can spend creative time together building edible houses from graham crackers and a variety of snack foods. Instructions and supplies are included. Kits are $5 each, and $1 from each kit will be donated to FOOD for Lane County.

Gifts from local artisans

Willamalane Adult Activity Center’s gift shop is featuring special holiday-themed, handcrafted items created by local artisans. Goods on offer include ornaments, holiday decor, wood train sets, and more. As a consignment shop, purchases support both the artisans and the Adult Activity Center. The Willamalane Adult Activity Center Gift Shop reopened virtually this September and will remain open through the holiday season. The virtual gift shop provides a way for community members to support local artisans. 

Giving Tree for those in need

Willamalane partners with community organizations for those in need. Instead of picking up wish lists in person, Willamalane created an online registry. Gifts will be shipped to Willamalane, where staff will coordinate deliveries. 

For more information on all four programs visit willamalane.org/winterathome.