A Night to Illuminate Grief 2025

What is A Night to Illuminate Grief?

Each year on the Winter Solstice, the longest night of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, we gather to illuminate grief with love, connection, and remembrance. Since its inception in 2023, A Night to Illuminate Grief has been held annually on the solstice, welcoming both virtual attendees and an in person community at a rotating Denver location.

On this longest night, we come together to honor loss, celebrate love in grief, and remind one another that no one walks this journey alone.

2025 Gathering: Exploring the grief journey together

We offered space to explore how grief lives within the body and shared somatic tools to support both emotional and physical well being. Participants were invited to meet their grief with compassion and care through education on the science of grief, gentle movement, and breath work,

Embracing community, both virtual and in-person

Community is at the heart of this gathering. Together, we created connection and shared understanding in a supportive environment through meaningful conversation, reflections from multiple speakers (including various faith leaders), and the healing power of music and poetry.

Shining LIGHT with a candlelight remembrance

A candlelight remembrance was held at the center of the evening. As the Winter Solstice unfolded, we came together to remember, honor, and heal collectively.

Attendees created four bouquets together during the event, representing all kinds of people and all types of grief.

They serve as a symbol of unity, resilience, compassion, and love, reminding us of our shared humanity.

Thank you

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us, both in person and virtually. Your presence and support mean more than words.

We are deeply grateful to our volunteers and nonprofit partners who made this night possible.

Until the next Winter Solstice…

Date and location

This year’s event will take place on Monday, December 21st. The in-person location is TBD in Denver.

Joining from anywhere

This event is live streamed on YouTube for those unable to attend in person. We encourage remote attendees to bring a candle to participate in the candlelight remembrance from wherever they are.

In person resources

Following the ritual service, in person attendees are invited to connect with local nonprofit organizations offering grief related resources and support.

We hope to see you this winter solstice. Sign up for LIGHT emails to be updated about this year’s event.

Check out the live stream from this year’s event below.