History

The Winter Solstice happens every year around December 21 or 22. It marks the shortest day of the year as the Northern Hemisphere is angled the farthest away from the Sun on this day. 

Facts about Winter Solstice (Northern)

• 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.
• The Mayan calendar ended on the Winter Solstice, December 21, 2012.
• 10 inches of snow melts down into only 1 inch of rain.

Winter Solstice (Northern) Top Events and Things to Do

• 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.
• 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.