Tá an Geimhreadh Tagtha: Winter Has Come — The Winter Solstice

Celebrate the Winter Solstice with a richly layered exploration of Irish seasonal traditions, presented by lecturer Elizabeth Hannan Kading and tenor-historian Richard Franklin Donohue. Tá an Geimhreadh Tagtha: Winter Has Come weaves together history, folklore, language, and music to illuminate how communities in Ireland have honored the solstice from ancient times through the Christian era and into the present day.

Kading introduces the deep symbolism embedded in the season—darkness giving way to returning light—and examines how ritual, storytelling, agrarian life, and spiritual practices shaped winter observances across centuries. Donohue enriches the program with musical selections including Don Oíche Úd i mBeithil, the Wexford Carol, and traditional Kilmore carols, offering a moving soundtrack to the themes explored.

Together, the presenters create an evocative and reflective solstice program that resonates with themes of community, renewal, and cultural continuity. Warm, insightful, and beautifully performed, this presentation invites audiences to enter the stillness of winter with deeper understanding and appreciation.

Suggested Donation: Non-Members $20 • Members $15 • Pay What You Can • Free Registration Available

To keep our programs open to all, Stanley-Whitman House offers Suggested Donation / Pay-What-You-Can pricing. The suggested amount reflects the real cost of the program, but you are welcome to contribute any amount—including more if you wish to support access for others. Your generosity helps sustain our presenters, educational initiatives, and the ongoing care of this National Historic Landmark. If cost is a hardship, please register at no charge. All are welcome here.

Directions
Stanley-Whitman House, 37 High Street, Farmington, CT.
Located off Route 4 in historic Farmington Village. Parking is available in the museum lot, across the street, and at the Barney Library.

About Stanley-Whitman House
A National Historic Landmark, Stanley-Whitman House is a living history museum interpreting 17th–19th century Farmington, Connecticut. Operated under the auspices of the nonprofit Farmington Village Green & Library Association (FVGLA), the museum offers immersive programs, exhibits, and hands-on learning.

Support the Museum
Please consider a year-end gift to the Annual Fund to support living history, education, community programs, and preservation.

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