Explore the science and folklore behind the Winter Solstice in the Los Alamos Nature Center’s planetarium on Friday, Dec. 21 at 7 p.m. with Rick Wallace. The nature center will also show the full-dome film “National Parks Adventure” on Saturday, Dec. 22 at 2 p.m. Courtesy photo

PEEC NEWS

Explore the science and folklore behind the Winter Solstice this Friday evening in the Los Alamos Nature Center’s planetarium. Astronomer Rick Wallace will discuss the astronomy of solstices as well as folklore, festivals and activities that are dedicated to celebrating this time of year. This talk begins at 7 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 21.

Wallace will look at solstice celebrations from around the world in both agricultural and urban societies. He will explore both historical celebrations and those that take place in the modern day. Mature themes may be discussed at this talk when looking at some of the folklore around the solstice. Please consider this before bringing children to this talk.

In addition to this talk, the nature center will play the full-dome film “National Parks Adventure” in the planetarium on Saturday, Dec. 22 at 2 p.m. This beautiful film explores the power of America’s national parks and offers incredible views of lush forests, towering cliffs and plunging canyons. This film was brought to Los Alamos by PEEC’s sponsors CB Fox, Metzger’s Hardware and the Delle Foundation, with additional funding from the Manhattan Project National Historical Park.

Seating is limited for both the talk and movie, so please call the nature center at 505-662-0460 or stop by to reserve tickets. Admission for both events is $6 for adults and $4 for kids. Events in the planetarium are not recommended for children under age 4.

For more information about this and other PEEC programs, visit www.peecnature.org, email programs@peecnature.org or call (505) 662-0460.