Collingwood Celebrates the Changing of the Seasons and Winter Solstice

Celebrate the Changing of the Seasons and the Winter Solstice this December in Collingwood. The Town of Collingwood invites you to Join Elder James Carpenter and Muckpaloo Ipeelie as we honour the Winter Solstice, acknowledging the changing of the seasons through Indigenous teachings and knowledge sharing.
 
Leading up to the Winter Solstice, from December 16th to 21st, Indigenous Traditional Healer and Oshkabewis (Helper) James Carpenter will provide the opportunity for community members and visitors to experience a traditional Sweat Lodge at the Awen’ Gathering Place. The Madoodiswan (Sweat Lodge) is one of the oldest Indigenous Ceremonies in North America. This Ceremony has been practiced and preserved within many Indigenous Nations for thousands of years. The Sweat Lodge represents the Womb of Mother Earth. In this Ancient Ceremony, there is an opportunity for individuals to build their Spirit Connection, supporting mental and emotional well-being. There are many reasons to attend a ‘Sweat Lodge Ceremony’ however participants are often on their individual personal healing journeys, at times seeking clarity for their ‘Path of Life’.
 
Sweat Lodge Ceremonies
•    Friday, December 16 at 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
•    Saturday, December 17 at 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
•    Sunday, December 18 at 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
•    Monday, December 19 at 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
•    Tuesday, December 20 at 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
•    Wednesday, December 21 at 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

There is no cost to participate but space is limited so pre-registration is recommended. Visit www.collingwood.ca/seasons for full details and to register.
 
On December 21st, the day of the Winter Solstice, return to the Awen’ Gathering Place for the Changing of the Seasons Celebration taking place from 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. The gathering will include Inuit Culture teachings from Muckpaloo Ipeelie and Winter Solstice teachings from James Carpenter, as well as Indigenous games and crafts, a sacred fire, a warming fire, and food sharing including a cup of Three Sisters Soup.
 
Be sure to dress for the weather!
 
Visit www.collingwood.ca/seasons for more details.