Summer Solstice Observation at Rothko Chapel

In observation of the Summer Solstice, the Rothko Chapel will be open from sunrise to sunset (approximately 6:22am-8:25pm) for a Summer Solstice Observation.

Celebrate sunrise on the summer solstice with a labyrinth walk on the Rothko Chapel grounds. Tilt your face toward the east and watch the sunrise on the day when the sun’s rays shine directly down on the earth’s equator.

Houston labyrinth duo Reginald Adams and Jay Stailey have created two summer symbols on which we can declare our intentions as we enter this new season. Begin with a brief introduction to labyrinths and intention setting by facilitators  Karen Kelley and Hattie McKinley at 6:21 AM, and enter the labryinths as the sun’s rays begin to light up the sky.

Kaminari Taiko of Houston, a Japanese drumming ensemble, marks the end of the longest day of the year at 8:25 PM. “Taiko” is a Japanese word for drum. The art of taiko carries deep significance in Japanese culture. Samurai warriors used taiko on the battlefield to signal commands and frighten their enemies. Townspeople warned of danger by beating on taiko, and priests used taiko at religious ceremonies to communicate with the gods. Temples and shrines throughout Japan display taiko as a symbol of purification and to dispel evil spirits.

Kaminari Taiko was founded in 1996 by Jay Mochizuki along with a number of talented musicians from diverse backgrounds and ethnicities. The members diligently trained under world acclaimed Taiko Masters such as: Daihachi Oguchi, Seiichi Tanaka, Kenny Endo and Takemasa Ishikura to learn the fundamental skills, philosophy and spirit of this centuries old Japanese tradition.