XANDRAR—Hundreds of pilgrims are expected to descend on the river town of Sumberton next week, awaiting the thaw of Lake Daggerchill with song, dance, and joyous celebration.

The travelers, members of the “Benevolent Order of the Southern Sun,” make the trek annually to the banks of the Daggerchill River. The gathering sometimes lasts for weeks if a cold snap prevents the lake’s annual fall.

“Many of us bring our families [to Sunthaw]—it’s great for children to step away from their chores for a few weeks and remember what’s truly important: the joyous turning of winter into spring,” said Jurri Sensanack, Lodge Master for the Benevolent Order’s Xandrar chapter.

While in Sumberton, members of the Benevolent Order will arise before dawn to “Sing the Sun Awake,” an elaborate choral performance involving hundreds of singers from all over southern Khorvaire.