Winter Solstice 2024 Marks the Shortest Day and Longest Night of the Year

This astronomical event, occurring December 21, signifies the start of winter in the Northern Hemisphere and has been celebrated globally for centuries.

The winter solstice will occur on Saturday, December 21, 2024, at 9:21 UTC, marking the shortest day and longest night of the year in the Northern Hemisphere.
The solstice happens when the Earth's axial tilt positions the North Pole farthest from the Sun, resulting in minimal daylight and maximum darkness.
Cultures worldwide observe the solstice with traditions like Yule, Dong Zhi, and celebrations at ancient sites such as Stonehenge and Newgrange, which align with the Sun during this event.
Following the solstice, days will gradually lengthen in the Northern Hemisphere until the summer solstice in June 2025, symbolizing renewal and the return of light.
The winter solstice also marks the beginning of Earth's shortest astronomical season, lasting approximately 89 days from December to March.