Susanville is gearing up for its annual Spring Solstice event, scheduled for Tuesday, February 11th, at 7:00 a.m. This local tradition marks the moment when the sunrise aligns perfectly with Main Street, casting unusual shadows that parallel the street from the Elks Lodge to the bend at Mesa Street. This phenomenon occurs twice a year, around October 29th or 30th and February 10th or 11th, purely by natural coincidence.
Despite the name, the Spring Solstice is not related to the astronomical summer solstice in June. Instead, it serves as a whimsical marker of the end of the harsh winter months in Susanville, often characterized by severe storms from late October to mid-February.
On the morning of the Susanville Solstice, residents and photographers gather uptown to capture the fleeting scene. The alignment creates opportunities for unique photographs, drawing enthusiasts like renowned outdoor adventure photographer Randy Robbins. Participants typically arrive about ten minutes before sunrise to set up their cameras for the brief but spectacular display.
Attendees are advised to dress warmly, as temperatures are expected to dip to 13 degrees that morning. The National Weather Service office in Reno forecasts mostly clear skies, suggesting the possibility of a striking sunrise. Residents and visitors are encouraged to bring their cameras and join the community gathering on Main Street for this short-lived but memorable event.
