Remember to give thanks to the often amazing Ramapo Mountains sunrises in celebration of the coming Winter Solstice, which occurs in the northern hemisphere on December 21. Photo by Geoff Welch.

Geoff Welch has been quietly working away at Harmony Hall, putting his years of experience in the area into programming for the historic Jacob Sloat House. Welch has consistently staged seasonal environmental and historical programs at the big white house on the hill, helping to build a local audience.

Look for the ever popular Harmony Hall Holiday Shoppe to be open during the Sunday, December 17, Winter Solstice celebration. Pictured here during the recent and popular Victorian Holiday. Photo by Geoff Welch.

Join Welch for Sunday’s seasonal setting to celebrate the Winter Solstice, December 17, from 2-4 p.m. Welch will be joined by musical guests guitarist Alpha Halvorsen and percussionist Christina Stefenelli, who will both perform during the afternoon. The event is free and open to the public.

The event is co-hosted and supported by the Town of Ramapo.

Think about stopping by Harmony Hall Sunday for a mellow afternoon of music that will include music, refreshments and a Ramapough winter blessing from Cindy Fountain.

Welch said he enjoys the Winter Solstice program because it provides a nice opportunity to reflect a moment on seasonal change, when the days begin to lengthen out again into spring.

Musician Chris Rowan‘s song “It’s a Fun Time When it’s Christmas” – with an assortment of local images provided by Geoff Welch. Chris Rowan wrote the song while working on Christmas music. Rowan has played at the Highlands Bluegrass Festival at Harmony Hall as part of the Rowan Brothers with brother Lorin, and as part of the band for the late fiddle-player Sue Cunningham.