There’s a quiet kind of magic in the Spring Solstice or Ostara—the moment when light begins to outpace darkness, and the earth gently stirs awake. If you’re anything like me, you’ve been waiting for this moment like a kid on Christmas morning. Here’s some ways to celebrate spring.
1. Going Green
You’ve loved the hearty soups and stews of winter, but now your body needs a reset, so celebrate the start of spring with greens. Think tender shoots, bitter greens, and bright herbs—foods that awaken the palate. Yup, that means arugula baby!
Celebrate the return of chives, arugula, watercress, dandelion greens and sprouts by seeding your own leafy green mixes or store-bought is great too!
2. Host a Spring Gathering
Celebrate the return of light by bringing people together. It doesn’t have to be elaborate—think rustic and light.
- A long-table meal with bright, fresh dishes
- A picnic in a park or backyard
- A potluck where each guest brings something inspired by spring
Add simple touches like fresh flowers, candles, or foraged elements to create a space that feels alive.
3. Forage (Responsibly)
If you’re drawn to the wild, early spring is a special time for gentle foraging. Start with fresh dandelion leaves (guide here) for your salads and nettles for soups and teas – get a guide for harvesting and using nettles here.
Always forage mindfully—know what you’re picking, harvest sustainably, and respect the ecosystem.
4. Ritual
The solstice doesn’t need to be grand to be meaningful. A small, personal ritual can help you mark the shift in a way that feels grounding.
- Lighting a candle at sunrise or sunset
- Writing down what you’re ready to release from winter
- Setting intentions for the season ahead
5. Go Outside
After winter, even a little time outdoors can feel transformative. Notice the subtle changes—the smell of thawing earth, the sound of birds returning, the longer light.
Take a walk, sit in the sun, or drink your morning coffee outside.
6.Bonfires!
One of the best ways to celebrate the return of the light is to make a bonfire. You’ll be wanting to do your pruning soon and gathering up off all the deadwood and twigs that have fallen over the winter. Make a bonfire with all the garden twigs, sticks and debris while stargazing and enjoying a cocktail!