By Ivan Pereira
For some people, the beginning of summer means hot days on the beach, sunshine and vacation. For others, it is a special occasion that marks the dawning of a new cycle of Mother Nature.
On Saturday, dozens of summer lovers gathered at Socrates Sculpture Park in Long Island City to mark that occasion during the seventh annual Summer Solstice Celebration. The open door event mixed traditions from various cultures, such as the ancient Greek and Egyptian practices, with modern customs.
"I heard about this event from my friend and I like it," said Tali Pinto of Guttenberg, N.J., who came with her husband and two children. "The activities are very unique and fun."
The park was turned into a sun worshiper's delight, with a large stage that faced west as the sun slowly set over the Manhattan skyline. Soothing pop, folk and mambo percussion music helped set the scene for the evening as families lounged comfortably on the grass, taking in the day.
"When I was younger, the beginning of summer used to mean being outside and having fun, but now it's about fun for [my kids]," said Wesley Martel, 34, of Greenpoint, Brooklyn, who was with his wife, 4-year-old daughter and baby son.
Martel's children were two of many who had their faces transformed into colorful living masks featuring cats, sparkling superstars and, in some cases, scary demons. The face painting was one of the arts and crafts activities that were offered to the parkgoers that night.
Old and young celebrators created their own seasonal art pieces with construction paper, yarn and other materials.
"This event feels very different because you get involved and you don't feel like one of those big events that are corporate-sponsored or fake," said Will Price, 41, of the Upper West Side, who made an image of a sunset with his wife, Melissa.
The celebration also featured a new interpretation of the ancient solstice performances. California-based dance/acting group My Barbarian joined New York-based dance group Robinschild in performing "Pagan Rights," a show that included Greek dances and acting, but also original sketches that marked the beginning of the summer.
The show amazed visitors, including Rebecca Dror of Long Island City, who came with her husband and two children.
"The place is already a good place to relax and the activities just make the day more fun," she said.
New park visitors agreed and said the borough's homey feel added to the comfortable atmosphere.
"The people here are different than the people in Manhattan," said Melissa Price, 36. "They are more diverse and down to earth."
Reach reporter Ivan Pereira by e-mail at ipereira@timesledger.com or by phone at 718-229-0300, Ext. 146.
