Bay Area Solstice 2026 Wants You to Sing or Speak

The Bay Area Winter Solstice is an annual community celebration with music and spoken word. For the 2026 event, organizers are holding auditions for songleaders and speech readers. This is a chance for regular people—not just professional performers—to take part in a beloved local tradition. The event will be held on the evening of Saturday, December 12 at The Freight in Berkeley.

To audition, you need to submit a recording by Thursday, November 20. There are separate online forms for songleading and speech auditions. Songleaders can choose to be accompanied by the event band (violin, bass, and drums) or bring their own musician. Readers will perform from selected texts, which are available online. If you're chosen, you'll need to attend a dress rehearsal on Tuesday, December 8, and a tech rehearsal on Friday, December 11.

This is a volunteer opportunity, but it's a meaningful way to connect with your community and be part of a special holiday event. It's also a low-pressure way to try performing if you've never done it before. The organizers, led by music director Leila Clark, are looking for enthusiasm and community spirit as much as talent. So if you've ever wanted to lead a singalong or read a speech in front of a friendly crowd, this is your moment.

Tickets for the event are now available for those who prefer to watch. Whether you audition or attend, the Solstice is a warm and welcoming way to celebrate the season with neighbors. So pick a song or a speech, record your audition, and submit it by November 20. Who knows? You might be the next voice of the Solstice.