What is the Shortest Day of the Year?

The shortest day of the year is known as the Winter Solstice whereby the Sun is at its furthest point from the Earth. In 2020, the Solstice occurred at 5.02am on December 21 in the United Kingdom. While the winter solstice may signify the end of one season and the beginning of another, the date doesn’t reflect the coldest day of the year, nor does it guarantee the shortest amount of daylight.

The Science Behind the Shortest Day

The winter solstice is the result of the Earth’s tilted axis and its orbit around the Sun. From June to December, the Northern Hemisphere is leaning away from the Sun and receives less light and warmth throughout this period. On December 21, 2020, the Sun was at its furthest point of tilt away from the Northern Hemisphere, producing the fewest amount of daylight hours and thus, making it the shortest day of the year.

The Significance of the Shortest Day

For many, the winter solstice is a reminder of the Earth’s natural rhythms as well as a new beginning – as we move into a new season, a new chapter of the year. For many cultures, the day also holds spiritual significance particularly in terms of bringing light into dark days. Some examples of such spiritual events include Yule (tied to the Norse festival of Juul), Saturnalia (an ancient Roman festival to mark the dark period of the year) and Dongzhi Festival (the longest night of the Chinese calendar to signify the beginning of winter).

For others, the winter solstice is an opportunity to get in touch with the natural environment and appreciate the beauty of the landscape even in the depths of winter. Celebrations often include outdoor fires, picnics, social gatherings and music.

The winter solstice marks a unique time in the year. As the days get darker, the solstice reminds us that soon the light and warmth of the sun will return. Regardless of one’s beliefs and traditions, this moment offers us all a chance to take stock and reset perspectives before we welcome in a new season.