Denmark Celebrates event to honour Christmas, solstice and Birak with markets and music on Saturday

An inclusive summer celebration, combining the spirit of Christmas with Summer Solstice and the beginning of the Noongar Birak season will be held in Denmark on December 13.

The free community event, called Denmark Celebrates, will run from 2pm to 8pm at Berridge Park and will include the popular Denmark River Arts Markets.

More than 60 stalls will showcase handmade arts and crafts, local produce, treats and a range of family-friendly activities.

Market organiser Kira Schimmelpfennig said the celebration will bring together different cultural traditions in an inclusive way.

“It’s more inclusive than just a Christmas celebration,” she said.

“It’s also celebrating solstice and Birak, and the arts and crafts stall are all homemade.

One of the highlights will be a community nature mandala with attendees invited to weave together elements from each tradition.

“The community is invited to bring goodies from their gardens like flowers, rocks and shells, where we can weave together the elements of Christmas, Birak and solstice and possibly other cultures in an interactive, co-created artwork on the day,” Ms Schimmelpfennig said.

Later in the evening, Carols by Candlelight will get everyone in the festive spirit with many Christmas classics set to be played.

As well as carols, there will be songs performed that will honour the December 21 summer solstice and First Nations heritage.

Denmark shire president Aaron Wiggins said he is excited that the Denmark River Arts Markets are combining with this year’s Christmas celebrations.

“It is great to have this end of year event, celebrating Christmas with the Denmark River Arts Markets, and Berridge Park is such an iconic and relaxed location for our community to get together at,” he said.

“You can’t help but enjoy yourself.”

Those wanting to contribute or get involved with this end of year summer celebration are encouraged to contact the Denmark River Arts Markets via markets@denmarkriverartsmarkets.com.au for further information.