Saturday, December 21 | 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Olana State Historic Site
Come celebrate the changing of the seasons during this special community day from 1:00 – 5:00pm on Saturday, December 21st. Join us at Olana State Historic Site for a series of free opportunities to take in the winter sky and experience the Hudson Valley‘s beautiful winter landscape!
Did you know Frederic Church was a stargazer, often including cosmic elements in his landscape paintings? Welcome the winter season by learning more about the way celestial bodies influenced Church. Join sun-gazing with Mid-Hudson Astronomical Association, get a personal astrology reading with Constellation Catskill, and participate in fun sky-centric activities and games.
Other events throughout the day include:
- Free access to Olana’s historic interiors.
- Refreshments for purchase from Citiot and other vendors.
- Free activities and games led by Olana educators and partners.
- Live set with DJ Jared.
- Visit with everyone’s favorite miniature donkey, Hank, back by popular demand!
- Holiday Shopping at the OLANA Shop (10:00 AM – 5:00 PM).
SPECIAL EVENTS
Free Historic Interiors Access
Discover the global treasures of Olana’s Main House interior in your own time for free during this special community event. Enjoy free access to Olana’s historic interiors during this self-guided opportunity.
House entry will be available on a first come first served basis. More information to come!
Walks with Nature Sarah 1:00 PM + 3:00 PM
Local outdoor educator Nature Sarah will lead two family-friendly walks! Join to brush up on your Earth Science and learn about solstices and sunsets. A nature-themed scavenger hunt will be available for younger participants. Each hike will start from the Historic House and follow the Ridge Road (0.6 mi). The route is considered easy with minimal elevation gain and short distances of steep grade. Strollers welcome.
Sun Gazing 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
View the sun directly through specially equipped solar telescopes from 1:00 PM until sunset (around 4:00 PM). Amateur astronomers from the Mid-Hudson Astronomical Association will help point out sunspots and other solar features using specially designed filters. Please DO NOT attempt to view the sun without a provided specially fitted telescope as it can cause permanent eye damage or total blindness.
Astrology Readings 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Derek James Smith of Constellation in Catskill will share a presentation and discussion around the Astrology of Frederic Church and Olana to kick off the afternoon at 1:00 PM. This introduction will study Church’s natal chart to provide an introduction to Astrology’s possibilities for aficionados and beginners alike. From 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM, Derek will offer interactive outdoor Astrological readings for those curious to learn more about the craft.
