[JAMES ISLAND] – The Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission (CCPRC) and the Charleston yoga community proudly present an event called Salute the Solstice Charleston Yoga Fest at James Island County Park. The festival will be held on this year’s summer solstice, on Thursday, June 21.
Throughout history, solstices and equinoxes have been sacred points of time to honor the flow of life on earth. The June 21 event is designed to bring the community together to salute the solstice on the day the sun rises to the highest point in the sky. Guests will gather in the meadow of James Island County Park to practice yoga starting at 5 p.m., and live music by Thomas Champagne and Friends will begin at 6 p.m.
The family-friendly event is an opportunity for adults and kids to practice yoga in tandem with leading teachers from Charleston’s vast array of yoga studios. Attendees will have the opportunity to experience meditation, perform sun salutations, and receive safe hands-on adjustments from instructors and assistants.
“I cannot think of a more festive way to enjoy the first day of summer than by celebrating physical activity, the great outdoors, families and unity,” said Allison Foster, CCPRC fitness and wellness programming manager. “Rolling, grassy meadows and live music beckons summer. Add kids and adults enjoying being together, experiencing yoga directed by our talented yoga community leaders, and I’m overcome with excitement.”
“Salute The Solstice is the true meaning of yoga, a bringing together or union of our communities to create a deeper connection,” said Soul Yoga + Wellness Co-Owner Amanda Bonfiglio. “Last year we had nine yoga studios, 40 small businesses and 400 plus locals join together to help create an unforgettable day. In the end we raised over $8,000 for local charities and had a lot of fun doing it. We can’t wait to be a part of it this year at the idyllic James Island County Park and look forward to seeing the greater community come together in such a special way.”
Salute the Solstice Charleston Yoga Fest is open to all experience levels and abilities. Admission is $25 in advance, or $30 on site, and includes yoga classes and a swag bag. Pre-registration ends June 20, and a rain date is scheduled for June 28.
Kids 12 and under are free, and will be able to take part in a kids yoga class held concurrently. Ages 15 and under must be accompanied by a registered adult. Dogs are not permitted. Event t-shirts will be available for purchase online or at the event, through partners in the local community. Proceeds from shirt sales will benefit the Dee Norton Child Advocacy Center and Armor Healing Kitchen.
The event is presented in conjunction with CCPRC’s Move IT! Fitness and Wellness program. Move IT! also offers other yoga programs at various county park locations, plus many other fitness and wellness classes and events. For more information on Salute the Solstice or to register in advance, visit www.CharlestonCountyParks.com or call 843-795-4386.
