A
event
on Sunday 21st December. The event starts at 15:00.
“In the midst of winter, I found there was, within me, an invincible summer.”
– Albert Camus, The Stranger
Hey! Thanks for landing here! James & Max, the event organisers here :)
This Winter Solstice Gathering is an interactive community event filled with storytelling, creative workshops and shared reflection. Professional storytellers, musicians and artists will guide you through a gentle, immersive journey.
The Winter Solstice is the shortest day of the year — a moment cultures across the world have long honoured as the turning point back toward the light. We’re creating our own version of that ritual at The Pickle Factory, inviting connection, creativity and hope in the darkest days of winter.
Come exactly as you are.
If you’re feeling energised, low, uncertain, hopeful or anything in between — you’re welcome.
We’ll support you to step gently out of your comfort zone with courage and playfulness (and yes, bring a pillow if you’d like to be cosy!).
We’ve run six of these gatherings so far and they’ve all sold out. Come alone or with a friend — we design the event so everyone meets new people and leaves feeling more connected.
AT A GLANCE
Date: Sunday 21st December 2025
Time: 2:30pm – 7:00pm (doors close at 3:00pm — no late entry)
Location: The Pickle Factory, Easton
Includes: creative workshops, storytelling, guided reflection, intention setting, music, vegan hot dinner from local growers, unlimited hot teas.
DINNER & REFRESHMENTS
Your ticket includes a hearty hot dinner! All food is gluten-, dairy- and nut-free. Please tell us about any other allergies or dietary needs when you book.
Hot teas available throughout the day.
IMPORTANT
This is a closed, immersive storytelling experience.
Please arrive before 3pm — doors will close so the group can journey together.
Event ends around 7pm.
TICKETS
This is a not-for-profit event — your ticket directly supports the venue, food and contributors.
Pay-what-you-can tiers:
-Ages 18–25
-Low income
-Standard
-On the door
ACCESSIBILITY
BSL interpreter present — please share with Deaf/HoH communities
Fully wheelchair-accessible venue with step-free entry
Sober event — no alcohol or drugs
Quiet, low-sensory space available throughout
Earplugs and stim tools welcome
Facilitators trained in inclusive, trauma-informed practice
Volunteers available to greet and support anyone arriving alone or needing extra help settling in
For access questions, email: [email protected]
We also offer limited free and pay-what-you-can places.
If cost is a barrier, email: [email protected]
SEATING & COMFORT
The event will sessions are floor-seated, with chairs available.
Bring a cushion or pillow if you’d like extra comfort. Part of the event includes optional time outdoors, but a warm indoor space will always be available.
WHO IT’S FOR
-Anyone 18+ seeking connection, creativity and hope
-People curious about activism, nature and storytelling
-Those looking for motivation, grounding or new community
-Adults 55+ exploring what it means to be an “Elder” today
Adults only — no children or babies (we’re unable to provide childcare).
Mafia Weekend CIC is a Bristol-based participatory film and storytelling organisation.
We create spaces where people can reconnect with nature, community and their own creativity through collaborative filmmaking, workshops and public gatherings. Our work centres wellbeing, belonging and empowerment — supporting people from all backgrounds to share their stories, build confidence and experience the power of community.
We run events, co-created films, intergenerational programmes and nature-based storytelling gatherings across the UK, with accessibility and inclusion at the heart of our practice.