The Bottom Line: December 21st is Winter Solstice!
The Full Story:
December 21st is Winter Solstice! The Winter Solstice means Autumn has officially come to an end. The winter solstice occurs when the sun's position in the sky is at its greatest angular distance from the hemisphere, resulting in the shortest day and longest night of the year. For the Northern Hemisphere, this usually occurs between December 21st and 23rd each year (though in the Southern Hemisphere, it takes place between June 20th and 23rd).
Did you know that the word “solstice” means, “sun stands still”? This seasonal milestone has been celebrated since ancient times. The Romans, for example, honored Saturn, the god of time and harvest, with a weeklong feast called Saturnalia.
While the traditions surrounding the winter solstice differ from culture to culture, most recognize it as a symbol of rebirth. Various festivals, gatherings, and rituals.