Anchorage’s publicly-funded “Winter Solstice Festival” has excluded any reference to “Christmas” from its annual celebration of the “return of the sun.”

To be sure there will be “twinkling” lights and horse drawn carriage rides, but even the mention of Santa is carefully worded to avoid the “C” word.

“[Y]ou might see Santa if he’s not too busy getting ready for his big day,” a notice for the event states.

The Dec. 19 event at Cuddy Park, happens on the darkest day of the year, when the sun reaches its lowest point below the horizon and just before it begins the long trek back to full strength on June 21. Pagan groups typically mark the winter event with ceremonies that highlight the “birth of the sun” rather than the nativity of Christ.

Winter Solstice observances are popular among pagans who want nothing to do with Christmas, Christ or the Nativity, but still want to gather with family and friends to celebrate with “twinkle” lights, “festive” music, and “holiday” treats.

Anchorage’s city-sponsored Winter Solstice event fits this description perfectly.

“There is nothing like bringing in the holiday season and enjoying the fresh air on a beautiful night in this lighted park!​” a notice for the event states. “This beloved midtown spot comes alive as we celebrate the return of the sun, featuring not only the lighted skating oval but also an adorable pond skating area surrounded by twinkling lights.”

While not  part of the upcoming Winter Festival, other pagan rituals include goddess ceremonies that celebrate the “birth of the sun” rather than the birth of Jesus.

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