Once all candles are lit, the family as a whole can blow them out to send wishes on their way. Candlelight Circle Can be done as part of a feast or separately. Family gathers in a circle around a card table or dining table. There is an unlit new red taper candle in a candleholder for each family member, plus a larger new red taper or pillar candle in a candleholder to represent the family as a whole and the Solstice Sun. Candles are arranged evenly around the central larger candle.
Lights are extinguished.
Family stands or sits in darkness for a few moments and contemplates the reduction of daylight at this time of year, the importance of the Sun to life on the planet, and the symbology of light as indicators of renewal. When all the candles are lit, the family joins hands and chants or sings. Candles can be left burning if in a safe, attended location, throughout the rest of the Solstice celebration, if there are other component parts. Candles can be extinguished by everyone doing it simultaneously after one of the family members states that the light of renewal remains in our hearts. An oak log, plus a fireplace or bonfire area is needed for this form of celebration.