Winter SolstiCelebration is returning for its 17th year on Friday, December 18th at the Cathedral of Hope in Dallas.

Attracting over a thousand people each year, the beloved North Texas celebration has steadily grown in size and popularity.

"The SolstiCelebration was born at White Rock Lake, taking place for the first few years at Winfrey Point," says event founder Amy Martin.

"It's the little event that could, and now it's the second largest Winter Solstice event in the nation!"

For 2009, the multi-cultural, non-sectarian event will explore the theme of Joy & Wonder through song, poetry, ceremony, dance, comedy, ritual, storytelling, drumming and a myriad of musical styles.

This year's event will also feature puppetry, magic, juggling and even professional yo-yo artistry.

"It promises to be a lighthearted event, yet full of awe," says Martin.

In the hour before and after the Winter Solstice service, a lively Yule Fest will host roving characters, music, and photos with Father Winter.

After the Solstice Service, attendees can enjoy hot ceremonial soup served with bread, nuts and cheese.

Donations of canned meat, fish and saltine crackers for the Cathedral of Hope food pantry will be accepted for the duration of the event.

Monks from the Order of St Francis & St Clare will be accepting donations of food, as well as winter wear for their cold-weather collection.

Serving as both narrator and emcee for the service will keep Martin busy for the duration of the event, along with many of her White Rock neighbors.

"Look for lots of popular east Dallas performers, including storytellers Gene and Peggy Helmick-Richardson, dancer Angie Dutton, vocalist Lainey Bernstein, tai chi artist Lane Cawthon."

The Winter SolstiCelebration takes place on Friday, December 18th from 7:00 - 9:00 p.m., with the Yule Fest beginning at 6:00 p.m. and continuing until 10:00 p.m.

Event tickets are $10 at the door, $8 in advance, and $5 for those under 13 & over 65.

For more information call 214-261-5599 or visit http://www.earthrhythms.org.

All photos are courtesy of Jennifer Walz.