KENNEBUNK —The First Parish Unitarian Universalist Church of Kennebunk will offer a Winter Solstice celebration at 7 p.m., Dec. 21, inspired by the Ancient Celts.

Since ancient times, this day of the year has had profound significance to humankind. Before the Pyramids of Egypt were built, the people of Ireland built a great temple in honor of the return of the sun after the longest night.

This year, the First Parish Unitarian Universalist Church of Kennebunk ‘s annual event has been inspired by bringing together two sources:  the archeological site from northeastern Ireland known as Newgrange, and the spiritual traditions handed down through the ages in the Celtic culture. The church will present its vision of what might have been a ritual that took place at this ancient temple.

The Winter Solstice at the First Parish Unitarian Universalist Church has been a well-attended holiday season family event for many years.

Around the world, through the ages, human beings have celebrated the season of the loss and return of the light of the sun. Each year, the wider community is invited to share, explore and honor these traditions.

Admission is free and all are welcome. Those who attend are asked to bring a non-perishable food item for local hunger relief and a finger-food item for the sharing and fellowship that completes the evening.

First Parish Unitarian Universalist Church is located at 114 Main St., Kennebunk.

For more information, see www.uukennebunk.org/