Beginning of Winter

Winter Solstice History

The Beginning of Winter, also known as the Winter Solstice, marks the astronomical start of the winter season. Observed worldwide, it is the time when the tilt of Earth's axis is farthest away from the sun, resulting in the shortest day and longest night of the year. The solstice has been celebrated for millennia by cultures across the globe, serving as a significant event in various religious and cultural traditions.

In the United States, the Winter Solstice has been observed by Native American tribes long before the arrival of European settlers. Native American cultures held various ceremonies throughout the centuries to mark and honor the solstice, which they viewed as a time of rebirth and renewal, signifying the return of longer daylight hours. Today, many Americans may not be aware of the traditional significance of the Winter Solstice, but its influence can still be felt through popular holiday customs, such as Christmas and Hanukkah, whose origin dates back to pre-Christian and pre-Jewish Solstice celebrations.

Though the observance is not a federal holiday in the United States, many Americans acknowledge and observe the solstice through a variety of private celebrations and communal gatherings. People light candles, attend bonfire ceremonies, or host feasts with friends and family to mark the return of the light and the promise of spring. On this day, December 21st or 22nd (depending on the year), the Northern Hemisphere of the Earth experiences its longest night and shortest day, making it one of the most prominent markers in the astronomical calendar.

Facts about Winter Solstice

• On the Winter Solstice, there are 24 hours of sunlight in the Antarctic Circle, and 24 hours of darkness in the Arctic Circle.
• Many pagan rituals have revolved around the Winter Solstice. The short days and long hours of darkness prompted rituals intended to lure the Sun back.
• There is a tradition in the northern part of China to eat "Lidong water" or "winter water", which is the water stored overnight. Drinking it is believed to protect from the cold and diseases.
• The Mayan calendar ended on the Winter Solstice, December 21, 2012.
• 10 inches of snow melt down into only 1 inch of rain.

In the News and Trending in the US for Beginning of Winter

Top things to do in the US for the Winter Solstice

• Purchase a Christmas tree. Tip: For a more environmentally friendly Christmas, purchase a Live trees in a burlap root sack that can be planted after the holiday.
• Watch the lunar eclipse which happens within several days of the winter solstice.
• Eat more Vitamin-D rich foods to balance out the lack of sunlight.
• Light some candles and enjoy the early evening.
• Finish some last minute Christmas shopping.