Additional Coverage:
- Shortest day and longest night: Winter solstice ushers in the official start of winter (newsbreak.com)
Winter Solstice: The Shortest Day, Longest Night
As the year draws to a close, we approach the winter solstice, occurring on December 21st this year. It marks the astronomical beginning of winter in the Northern Hemisphere, while the Southern Hemisphere welcomes summer.
The solstice brings the shortest day and longest night, as the Earth’s tilt brings us farthest from the sun. The precise moment of the solstice occurs when the hemisphere is at its maximum tilt away from the sun.
Celebrating the Solstice
Many cultures throughout history have recognized the significance of the winter solstice. Today, it is celebrated by many as a time of rebirth and change. The pagan holiday of Yule, which marks the sun’s return and the rebirth of the land, is often observed around the solstice.
One of the most famous solstice celebrations is held at Stonehenge in England, where thousands gather to mark the occasion. The ancient ruins have been associated with solstice celebrations for centuries, and many theories exist about their original purpose.
Christmas Traditions from Pagan Roots
Many Christmas traditions we enjoy today, such as Christmas trees and wreaths, have pagan origins. The celebration of Yule influenced these customs, which have become part of the modern Christmas celebration.
The winter solstice has been revered by human cultures for thousands of years, symbolizing new beginnings and the promise of longer days to come.