What is the Winter Solstice?

The winter solstice takes place every year, usually on December 21st or 22nd. It is the shortest day and the longest night of the year and marks the official beginning of winter. At the winter solstice, the Earth’s North Pole – which is tilted away from the sun – is farthest from the sun. This is why it gets colder during the winter and why the days become shorter.

The Significance of the Winter Solstice

For many cultures around the world, the winter solstice is a time of celebration and renewal. Ancient Greeks, Romans and other cultures celebrated the winter solstice as the birth of new life, as the death of old gods, and as the beginning of a new cycle of seasons. In many cultures, the winter solstice has even been seen as a cause for celebration and an opportunity to honor new beginnings.

How to Celebrate the Winter Solstice

Today, there are still many ways to celebrate the winter solstice. Common ways to celebrate include practicing gratitude, lighting candles to bring light into the darkness, donating to charities, and hosting winter-themed parties. Additionally, acknowledging the cycle of the seasons and taking stock of where we have been and what we have accomplished can be a meaningful part of celebrating the winter solstice. Winter solstice celebrations don’t have to be complicated, and can involve simply taking time to be present and reflect.