The December solstice occurs when the sun reaches its southernmost point in the sky and is directly over the Tropic of Capricorn. This happens on December 21st or 22nd each year in the Northern Hemisphere, and June 20th or 21st in the Southern Hemisphere. The word “solstice” comes from the Latin solsticium, which means “sun-standing.”
At the December solstice, the sun shines directly overhead at noon at the Tropic of Capricorn. This is the shortest day of the year in terms of daylight hours, and after this day, days will start to get longer again. In fact, the December solstice marks the start of winter in the Northern Hemisphere and summer in the Southern Hemisphere.
Interestingly, although it is winter in North America during the December solstice, it is actually summertime in Australia! This is because North America is in the middle of its winter season while Australia is in its summer season. So while North Americans are experiencing short days and cold weather, Australians are enjoying long days and warm weather.
When does the December Solstice occur?
The December Solstice occurs on December 21, the day of the year with the shortest amount of daylight. For anyone living north of the equator, this is the day when the sun appears at its lowest point in the sky. The word solstice comes from the Latin solstitium, which means “sun stands still.” This is because on this day, the sun’s path appears to stop moving south and starts to move back north.
Why does the December Solstice occur?
The December Solstice occurs because the Earth’s tilt is at its maximum point away from the sun. This happens once a year on December 21st or 22nd. The solstice is therefore the shortest day and longest night of the year.
What are the effects of the December Solstice?
The December solstice occurs when the sun is at its southernmost point in the sky. This happens on December 21st or 22nd each year. In the northern hemisphere, this is the winter solstice and the shortest day of the year. In the southern hemisphere, this is the summer solstice and the longest day of the year.
The solstice itself doesn’t have any visible effects. But it’s an important date in many cultures because it marks a change in the seasons. For example, in ancient times, people saw the winter solstice as a time to celebrate new beginnings. The days would start to get longer after that, so it was seen as a time of hope and renewal.
In modern times, people often use the winter solstice as a time to reflect on the past year and set goals for the coming one. It’s also a popular time for parties and other celebrations!
How can you celebrate the December Solstice?
There are many ways to celebrate the December Solstice, also known as the Winter Solstice. For many people, this is the shortest day of the year and the official start of winter. Here are some ideas on how you can celebrate this special day:
– Go for a nature walk and take in the beauty of winter
– Make a special meal or treat to enjoy with family and friends
– Have a bonfire or firepit gathering to enjoy the longest night of the year
– Get together with others and make holiday crafts or decorations
– Spend time indoors cozying up with a good book or movie
Whatever you choose to do, make sure to take some time to appreciate the wonder of nature and the changing seasons.
Conclusion
The December Solstice marks the official beginning of winter and is a great opportunity to get outside, celebrate the season with friends, and appreciate nature’s beauty. Even if you can’t participate in any of the cultural festivities associated with it, taking a moment to reflect on this special day will surely be rewarding. With its changing colors and freezing temperatures, winter has much to offer; so don’t miss out this year on celebrating the December Solstice!
Important days and events on December 21
| DATE | EVENT |
| DEC 21 | National Coquito Day |
| DEC 21 | National Short Girl Appreciation Day |
| DEC 21 | Winter Solstice |
| DEC 21 | Blue Christmas |
| DEC 21 | December Solstice |
| DEC 21 | Dongzhi |
| DEC 21 | Humbug Day |
| DEC 21 | Look on the Bright Side Day |
| DEC 21 | National Armagnac Day |
| DEC 21 | National Crossword Puzzle Day |
| DEC 21 | National Flashlight Day |
| DEC 21 | National French Fried Shrimp Day |
| DEC 21 | National Homeless Persons’ Remembrance Day |
| DEC 21 | National Lee Day |
| DEC 21 | National Maine Day |
| DEC 21 | São Tomé Day |
| DEC 21 | World Snowboard Day |
| DEC 21 | Yule |
