Winter Solstice Facts

Front

What is the winter solstice?

Back

The winter solstice is the shortest day of the year and marks the moment when half of Earth is tilted the farthest away from the sun.

Front

When does the winter solstice occur in the Northern Hemisphere?

Back

It usually happens on December 21 or 22.

Front

What happens to daylight after the winter solstice?

Back

Every day after the winter solstice will be a little longer until the summer solstice.

Front

When does the winter solstice occur in the Southern Hemisphere?

Back

In June, because the seasons are reversed below the Equator.

Front

Is the winter solstice the coldest day of the year?

Back

No, the coldest temperatures are often at least a month away.

Front

How can you observe the winter solstice?

Back

On the winter solstice, your shadow at noon will be the longest of the year.

Front

Why is the winter solstice called 'sun stands still'?

Back

During the days around the winter solstice, the sun appears to rise and set in the same place, hence 'sun stands still' in Latin.