Join us for Winter Solstice

November 24, 2021

Remember •  Reflect  •  Connect

Winter Solstice:
A Meditation on Light

December 20th & 21st

Presented by Mount Auburn Cemetery and MASARY Studios

Winter Solstice is SOLD OUT.

We are so grateful for the response this year’s Winter Solstice. To keep all guests safe and to preserve the quiet reflection that is central to this event, we can only welcome a set number of visitors to the grounds each night. At this time, the event has reached its maximum capacity for both evenings. Please do not plan to attend this event unless you are a confirmed ticket-holder. Thank you for your understanding.

Event Information


General Event Information

What is Winter Solstice? Winter Solstice is a night-time illuminated walk-through in and around Mount Auburn’s landscape and Bigelow Chapel. This event draws heavily from our past Candle Lighting Services while offering new opportunities to remember, reflect, and connect with our inspirational landscape. Light, music, and moments of reflection will honor the idea of cycles—life, seasons, celestial, and personal — and create a meaningful experience to close out the year. As part of the event, guests will make their own offerings of light by placing candles inside Bigelow Chapel. This unique event is for those with loved ones remembered at Mount Auburn and anyone who is seeking a shared community experience of remembrance and reflection.

How do I add a memorial candle without attending the in-person event? Bigelow Chapel will be open on Sunday, December 19th (1 – 4 pm) and Tuesday December 21st (10 am – 1 pm) for those who cannot attend the evening event but wish to place a personalized candle for the Winter Solstice. Candles can be purchased on-site during these times. Please note: Bigelow Chapel will not be illuminated during these day-time open house hours.

Are there other opportunities to participate? Join us from home for for messages of hope and light as we mark the changing of the seasons. A pre-recorded video, featuring reflections from members of our community, will be available for on-demand viewing on our website starting at 6PM on December 21st.  The video will be available to all, at no charge.

Ticketing & Admission

How many tickets can I purchase at once? There is a limit of four tickets per transaction.

Is there a student/senior rate? No, the only discounted ticket rate is for members of the Friends of Mount Auburn. Learn more about becoming a member.

Can I change my date or time? We expect this event to sell out, so we cannot accommodate exchanges. Please ensure that you have carefully selected your preferred date and time before completing your transaction.

If I cannot make it to the event, are my tickets refundable? We will refund your ticket price (minus the processing fee)  if you cancel your tickets at least 48 hours before the event.

What is the weather policy? Unsafe or extreme weather will cancel this event. In the event we must cancel due to weather, guests will be notified by email by 12PM on the day of; we will offer a full refund.

What time should I arrive? You will be arriving to the Cemetery after closing time, however the main gate at 580 Mount Auburn St. will be open for attendees.  Please plan to be at the Cemetery 15 minutes before your showtime so you have ample time to park, use the restroom, and check in. 

What happens if I show up early or late for my entry time?  To ensure a positive experience for guests, we ask that you arrive for your designated time slot. Please plan to be at the Cemetery 15 minutes before your showtime so you have ample time to park, use the restroom, and check in.

Do I need to print my ticket? No, we will have your name on our attendee list. Please consider the environment before printing your event confirmation.

Where is the starting location? Please report to Story Chapel, located just inside the main gates, to check-in.  

Are masks required? Masks are not required for the outdoor experience portion of the event; masks ARE REQUIRED to enter Story and Bigelow Chapel.

Will ticket holders get any additional information or updates before the event? Yes! Please keep an eye on your email for additional information as the event nears.  We are monitoring COVID-19 guidelines from local government and the CDC and will abide by current best practices. We will notify ticket holders of these practices before the event.

Amenities & Accessibility

Where is the parking for this event? Parking is available at the Cemetery. When you arrive, our staff will direct you to parking.  You may wish to bring a flashlight to get to and from your car, as it will be dark.

Is the site wheelchair accessible? The walking route through the Cemetery will stay on paved roads, and both Chapels are accessible.  The walking route is approximately ½ mile, not including walking to parking, and does include steep grades. Please contact us for additional questions or to request additional accommodations. 

How long does it take to walk through? On average, expect to spend about an hour walking through at your own pace.

Will restrooms be available? Yes, restrooms will be available for guests at Story and Bigelow Chapels. Masks are required in the restrooms.

What should I wear? The event will take place mostly outdoors. Dress appropriately for the weather that day.

Can I take photos? Please silence phones and turn off your flash for this experience.  You may take photos of the outdoor light displays. We ask that you not take photos in Bigelow Chapel, so as not to disturb other guests.

Other Questions?

Please email us if you have any additional questions about this event: friends@mountauburn.org 

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