Re: Solstice stories
I liked that episode too. Northern Exposure is playing late nights here on A & E, but I don't get many chances to watch it.
Humans have been celebrating the solstice since they migrated north from Africa and discovered crappy Minnesota-type winters. I'm sure it predates agriculture, although when agriculture was discovered it became even more important.
I myself feel a great relief when the days stop getting shorter and, however imperceptibly at first, start getting longer. I'm one of those people who does not do well with darkness at 5 PM.