The recent weather across the United States has turned chilly, with some regions experiencing frigid temperatures even before winter began. The winter solstice, which falls on Saturday, December 21st, has now arrived.

On this day, we will experience the shortest daylight hours and the longest night of 2024.

According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, the winter solstice also signifies the commencement of the Pagan festival called Yule, celebrating the return of the sun and the rejuvenation of nature as daylight hours begin to extend following the year’s longest night.

The solstice is a moment for many to contemplate renewal and transformation. Throughout history, various cultures have marked this seasonal shift as a significant symbol, and individuals from diverse faiths continue to honor it today.

What is the winter solstice?

The winter solstice signals the arrival of astronomical winter in the Northern Hemisphere, while the Southern Hemisphere celebrates the summer solstice.

This extended night and shortened day result from the Earth’s tilt in relation to the sun. On the winter solstice, the Earth is tilted away from the sun at its maximum angle, leading to diminished sunlight. The solstice itself lasts for just a moment, described by the Old Farmer’s Almanac as the “precise instant when a hemisphere is at its furthest tilt from the sun.”

When does the solstice usually occur?

The date of the winter solstice can land anywhere between December 20 and 23, depending on the year, but it typically falls on the 21st or 22nd.

In 2023, the solstice also took place on December 21st, but on a Thursday.

Stonehenge and the Solstice

A particularly renowned celebration happens at the ancient Stonehenge site in Wiltshire, England, where many congregate to welcome the season.

There are numerous theories about the original function of Stonehenge, including its role as a burial ground, an astronomical observatory, a spiritual site, or a center for rituals and healing. Regardless, it has been surrounded by myths, legends, and cultural stories.

In the 20th century, Stonehenge emerged as a site of spiritual significance for individuals embracing New Age beliefs, particularly Neopaganism and Neo-Druidism. When it was built, the stone circle was aligned with the sun, and even now, thousands gather to see the moment the sun aligns perfectly with its stones.

Christmas tree traditions descended from Pagan practices

Many customs we associate with Christmas today, like Christmas trees and wreaths, originated from pagan solstice festivities, particularly the Yule celebration. The solstice has been valued by cultures globally throughout history, symbolizing fresh starts as people look forward to the coming season.

Pagans continue to gather in large numbers at Stonehenge, the prehistoric site constructed between 3100 and 1600 BC. It stands as one of the UK’s most iconic landmarks, though little is known about the civilization that built it or their motivations, as these ancient peoples left no written records behind.