Some of the candle lanterns we made, from jars decorated with tissue paper and black paper cut-outs
The weather looked un-promising but by late afternoon on 21st June the clouds had lifted and the sun peeped out, just in time for the All Year Round Summer Solstice Gathering.
As people arrived we made summer wreaths from willow and hedgerow materials and decorated jars to make candle lanterns. The camp fire was burning with a pot of Pembrokeshire new potatoes boiling on it, in anticipation of the bring and share feast. Bungo had bought his bug hunting kit, and much fun was had searching in various nooks and crannies for bugs to have a closer look at.
Just before supper we walked the Wildflower Labyrinth that had been scythed into the top meadow, pausing to admire the myriad of flowers, especially the orchids – both the purple Common Spotted and the white Greater Butterfly Orchid.
Then we gathered around the campfire to enjoy the bring and share feast. Thank you to all who contributed – it was delicious! The children ran and played while the adults talked around the fire as the evening drew in. The odd light shower did nothing to dampen the spirits.
Then it was time to light the candle lanterns! Despite the best efforts of a gusty wind, we succeeded in placing numerous lanterns along the labyrinth path. We then walked the labyrinth again as dusk fell, enjoying the colourful patterns of the lanterns and the candle light shining through the raindrops on the glass.
Several families camped over, and after a mellow breakfast in the barn it was time to tidy up and go home. It was a lovely way to mark the longest day of the year, and thanks to everyone who came to share it with us.
The next All Year Round event will be to celebrate Lammas. All are welcome to join us. Look out for more details here!
Part of the Wildflower Labyrinth. It is hard to photograph!