If you’ve wondered, “When is the winter solstice?” recently, don’t worry—we’ve got your answer. Here’s when it is in 2021, plus other key solstice facts to know.
The following written content by Kelly Kuehn
What to know about the 2021 winter solstice
Ah, the winter solstice—a day many hear about, but may not completely understand. When is the winter solstice, anyway, and what exactly is it? Turns out there’s more to it than just a short day and long night. Read on to learn key things about the 2021 winter solstice before it arrives. Then, read up on winter solstice traditions from around the world and what this year’s winter solstice means for your zodiac sign.
When is the winter solstice?
In 2021, the winter solstice is happening on Tuesday, December 21 at 10:59 EST in the Northern Hemisphere. Yep, it only lasts a brief moment, not a whole day as many believe!
What is the winter solstice?
The winter solstice is the day we have our shortest day and our longest night. Typically, it falls on December 21 or December 22 (only a few days before Christmas) in the Northern Hemisphere and on June 20 or June 21 in the Southern Hemisphere.
The winter solstice is rooted in an astronomical event. During this time, the sun is at its lowest point in the sky in the Northern Hemisphere. This means the Northern Hemisphere is tilted farthest away from the sun, which is why it’s the shortest day of the year. After the winter solstice, the Northern Hemisphere starts to tilt towards the sun again, which is why the days get longer. Winter still marches on, though, as these winter pictures from across America prove.
The Northern and Southern Hemispheres experience their solstices at opposite times due to the way Earth tilts on its axis. Read more from Reader’s Digest.
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