Glen Innes locals and visitors are warmly invited to welcome the height of summer at the Australian Standing Stones this Sunday, 21 December, with a full day of community celebration hosted by the Australian Standing Stones Management Board.
Across Celtic traditions, the Summer Solstice is a time of light, abundance and connection. From the ancient stone circles of Europe to our own national Celtic monument on the Beardy Plains, the solstice offers a moment to pause, reflect and enjoy our shared heritage in a beautiful natural setting.
The day begins early, with a 5:30am sunrise gathering, as the solstitial sun aligns with the Sunrise Marker just after 6am.
Later in the morning, families can enjoy the grounds, playground and picnic areas, with Crofters Cottage Café open from 8:30am (except public holidays).
Sunday timeline highlights:
- 10:30am – Crofters Cottage Christmas kids’ colour-in competition winners announce
- 12:00pm – New Summer Solstice Sunrise plaque reveal
- 12:30pm – Main Solar Noon gathering (solar noon at 12:51pm)
- 12:55pm – Fundraising raffle
- 1:00pm – Guided walking tour of the monument
- 7:30pm – Sunset gathering, with solstitial sunset at 7:50pm
Visitors are reminded to bring sunscreen, a hat or umbrella for shade, and plenty of water. Come up for the solstice, enjoy the long summer days, and share in a uniquely Glen Innes celebration.
