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Farmers Rising Invites You to Welcome Winter in the Countryside

  • Writer: Bob Benenson
    Bob Benenson
  • 18 minutes ago
  • 2 min read

Solstice on the Farm to Be Held on December 20

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Our friends at Farmers Rising — the farmer education non-profit based in the north-central Illinois community of Caledonia — invite you to an event that is almost guaranteed to be cool. Its Solstice on the Farm event will take place on Saturday, December 20 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at its Farmers Rising Lodge, 1936 Rockton Rd. Caledonia (near Rockford).


Here are the details from the organization:

Join us for a magical evening under the stars as we celebrate the turning of the season and the return of the light.


This free community event is centered around hope — honoring the cycles of nature, the work of our farmers, and this sacred season of rest and renewal. As the fields lie quiet, we gather to celebrate community, reflection, and the promise of spring’s return.


Event Highlights


  • Luminary Trail Walk – Wander the glowing path through the winter night.

  • Fire Circle – Share warmth, laughter, and stories under the stars.

  • Candlelit Labyrinth Meditation – Reflect, release, and welcome new beginnings.

  • Farm Crafts for Kids – Creative fun for the young (and young at heart).

  • Live Music by Marques Morel – Soulful sounds to light up the night.

  • Fire Spinning & Drum Circle – Feel the rhythm! Bring your own instruments for a community jam.


Farm Fresh Food


Enjoy local, handcrafted fare featuring our farm-grown ingredients and community partners:


  • Smoked Pork Chop Sandwiches – $10 (Pork from Farmers Rising, Caledonia, IL; BBQ sauce featuring Raines Honey Farm Buns: Old Fashioned Bakery, Beloit, WI)

  • Baked Potato Soup with toppings bar – $8 (Vegetables: Bountiful Beloit, Beloit, WI: Bacon: Farmers Rising, Caledonia, IL)

  • Chips – $3 (Ole Salty's, Rockford, IL)

  • Chocolate Mint Brownies — $3 (Grain: Hazzard Free Farm, Eggs: Ten Men Farm)

  • Hot Apple and Pear Cider — $3 (Fruit: Farmers Rising Caledonia, IL)


Sustainability & Hospitality


  • Hot Beverages Provided – Please bring your own mug for a low-impact event.

  • BYOB – Bring your favorite beverage to enjoy responsibly.

  • Composting Provided by Nettle Composting Co-Op – Keeping our celebration earth-friendly and waste-free.


What to Bring


  • This is a primarily outdoor event — dress warmly and wear sturdy boots or shoes. Bring your instruments, your loved ones, and your spirit of hope and gratitude as we honor the land and those who tend it.

  • Camping chair or blanket

  • Date: Saturday, December 20th, 2025

  • Time: 3:00 – 6:00 PM

  • Location: Farmers Rising Lodge, 1936 Rockton Rd, Caledonia, IL

  • Admission: Free Community Event, donations welcome. REGISTRATION REQUIRED.


Come celebrate light, hope, and the heart of the farm.




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