14th Annual Winter Solstice Vigil
Sacred Resilience in the Time of the Great Divide
With Renee Baribeau, The Practical Shaman
19-20 December 2025
Whidbey Island, Washington State USA

Shamans Directory Ambassador Renee Baribeau is an author, teacher, and ceremonial leader whose work bridges ancient wisdom with modern life. Known as The Practical Shaman, she guides individuals and communities to reconnect with nature, purpose, and the unseen forces that sustain resilience.

For fourteen winters, Fire Tenders across the world have gathered around a shared flame to honor the turning of the light. This sacred vigil, hosted by Renee, began in 2011 and continues as a global circle of candles, altars, prayers, and presence.

This year, the event returns to Whidbey Island, where Renee will tend the central fire throughout the gathering, from the Opening Ceremony on Friday 19 December through Saturday 20 December, when she will host a full day of live online teachings.

There are three ways to participate this year: Free Livestream, The Inner Sanctuary Pass, and the Live Lighting of the Whidbey Island Fire, with a special guest and reflections from Renee. Find out how to participate.

Learn more