Newton, NC – In honor of the longest day of the year, AnandaRasa Catawba warmly invites the community to gather for a Summer Solstice Fire Ceremony on Saturday, June 21 at 7:00 PM at the historic Catawba Farms in Newton. This sacred community gathering will be led by Chief Walking Tall, a respected Indigenous healer, teacher, and artist based in Hickory, NC and will be emceed by Patricia Thompson, President of Arts Culture Catawba.

This free event welcomes everyone with an open heart to participate in a powerful evening of spiritual renewal, ancestral remembrance, and community celebration. Donations are gratefully accepted and will support AnandaRasa Catawba’s community garden project and other nonprofit initiatives serving the Catawba Valley region. Together, we will mark the turning of the sun with a Land Blessing, Fire Ceremony, and Drum Circle to call in light, transformation, and unity through ancient ritual and joyful movement. The Drum Circle aspect is also part of Make Music Catawba County to provide attendees an opportunity to be a part of this celebration of music.

EVENT DETAILS:

  • Date & Time: Saturday, June 21, 2025 | 7:00–9:00 PM
  • Location: Catawba Farms, 1670 Southwest Blvd, Newton, NC 28658
  • Cost: Free & Open to all with a kind, peaceful heart | Donations Welcome
  • What to Bring: Folding chair, drums, open heart, dancing feet

EVENT SCHEDULE:

7:00 – 7:30 PM – Prayer Invocation, Land Blessing & Fire Lighting, led by Chief Walking Tall and Emcee

Patty Thompson

7:30 – 8:00 PM – Sacred Dance & Ritual, a ceremonial dance around the fire with live drumming

8:00 – 9:00 PM – Community Fire Dance & Closing Circle, where all are invited to dance, move, and celebrate in unity under the stars and continue the rhythm.

Beverages will be available for purchase onsite after the ceremony.

About Chief Walking Tall: A spiritual guide and ceremonial leader, Chief Walking Tall has dedicated their life to sharing ancestral wisdom and sacred healing practices. With global experience in Indigenous healing traditions, their presence calls forth deep reverence, collective awakening, and connection to spirit.

Hosted by AnandaRasa Catawba, a nonprofit spiritual sanctuary devoted to helping individuals reconnect with their inner selves, cultivate well-being, and experience transformation. Learn more at: www.anandarasa.org.