Many cultural celebrations are rooted in the cycles of the sun and moon, especially the solstices and equinoxes. For example, Easter, Passover, Narooz in the Spring, Rosh Hashanah, Kwaanza, Christmas in the winter, etc.

We do not tend to think of our earthly rhythms and moments in this way, largely because they have been incorporated into various religious observations or because of a multitude of urban and technological distractions.

Seasonal celebrations can reminded us of a time when our world was viewed as a distinct whole, with nature and culture intimately interconnected.

What exact shape things will take here in Berkeley will be left to invention. Planned efforts include

  • equinox and solstice gatherings at the site
  • Chavez celebration beginning on the spring equinox
  • special activities by Lawrence Hall of Science and the Exploratorium
  • school curricula on the ancient meanings of the seasons