Winter Fun! Kick Off The Official Start Of Winter With Duluth’s Candle-Lit Solstice Luminary Hike

While winter weather might arrive earlier than this, the official start of winter is on the Winter Solstice, which is December 21. In the Northland, this is the "shortest day of the year", with only 8 hours and 31 minutes of daylight in Duluth.

Why not celebrate the official start of winter and the slow return of longer days ahead by using all of that darkness on the shortest day of the year to enjoy a candle-lit luminary hike?

The City of Duluth Parks and Recreation Department is giving you just such an opportunity with their Solstice Luminary Hike on December 21, 2023.

The event is free and open to the public, giving visitors the opportunity to explore a packed trail at Enger Park Golf Course, all lit by candles in the evening hours right before Christmas and the new year.

What do I need to know about the Duluth Solstice Luminary Hike?

The public is welcome to show up anytime between 5 pm and 8 pm on December 21 for this self-guided candle-lit walk.

READ MORE: This Duluth Attraction's Christmas Tours Are Like Walking Into A Historic Painting

The Solstice Luminary Hike begins at the Enger Park Golf Course Clubhouse on Skyline Parkway, and follows a pre-marked path that is lined with luminaries. If we have snow on the ground, the path will be "snow-stomped", but you'll want to wear boots or some cold & snow-friendly footwear for your evening walk.

There will also be hot chocolate and a bonfire to enjoy as part of your evening.

Get our free mobile app

Officials with Duluth Parks & Recreation do ask that you try to carpool, as there is limited parking at the clubhouse

Any weather-related announcements or updates for this event will be made available via the Solstice Luminary Hike Facebook event page, or via the Duluth Parks & Recreation Facebook Page.