Written by Christine Berlingeri
Every year, Eastie Farm marks solstices and equinoxes, as our ancestors have done for millennia. The relationship between the Earth and the Sun dictates our seasons, which in turn controls the growing seasons. We celebrate solstices and equinoxes to remind ourselves of this important relationship and to mark the turn of the seasons.
On Sunday, December 21st, 2025, the Eastie Farm community came together to welcome the return of brighter, longer days at our Winter Solstice celebration. Winter Solstice marks the shortest day of the year, with each day that follows bringing a little more daylight. We gathered for an evening of gratitude, reflection, and connection, with food and friends.
We also took the opportunity to appreciate the volunteers who have supported the farm all year long. The work we do at Eastie Farm would not be possible without their dedication. From growing and harvesting food to supporting education programs and community events, our volunteers manage the varying workload, while also connecting us with the very community we serve. This evening was an opportunity to recognize the impact they make year round.
We shared a spread of seasonal food and drinks, including miso soup made by Morgan with Eastie Farm grown oyster and shiitake mushrooms, a salad made by Joel and Micaelah with Eastie Farm grown hydroponic lettuce tossed in a sesame mushroom dressing made by Morgan, and Morgan’s famous kombucha with a seasonal twist. Volunteers and guests also brought sweet treats to share. Gathering to enjoy food grown and prepared by our community made the evening feel especially special.
We also took time to reflect on what we accomplished together this year. With the support of our volunteers, staff, and partners, Eastie Farm distributed over 68,000 pounds of food and supported more than 50 local Massachusetts farms, with over 100 unique items including eggs, honey, spices, hot sauce, and more. These achievements reflect the power of collective effort and community driven food systems.
The celebration brought together longtime supporters and new faces alike. We were grateful to see former Eastie Farm Climate Corps fellows, volunteers, CSA customers, board members, family and friends, and local representatives. Seeing connections across programs and years reminded us how strong and far reaching our community truly is.
We had seasonal activities that curated a warm festive environment, with handmade crafts such as popcorn garland, paper snowflakes, and orange and clove pomander balls. These activities fostered a creative space with moments to connect and conversate with each other.
We are so thankful to everyone who joined us to celebrate, to all who support our mission through volunteering or donating, and to our incredible staff who work tirelessly to make gatherings like this, and all of our work, possible. As we move forward into a new season of light, we are deeply grateful to be surrounded by such a committed and caring community.
For more sweet moments captured, click here!
Photo Credits (and a huge thank you) to Photographer Agnieszka Rytych-Foster
Website: http://www.agniephoto.com
