Winter Solstice

What does the Winter Solstice mark?

• • The longest day and shortest night of the year

• • The shortest day and longest night of the year

• • The day the Earth is closest to the sun

• • The day with equal daylight and night hours

When does the Winter Solstice typically occur in the Northern Hemisphere?

• • Around December 1st

• • Around December 15th

• • Around December 21st

• • Around January 1st

What is the primary reason for the Winter Solstice?

• • The sun's orbit changes

• • The Earth's tilt causes the North Pole to be farthest from the sun

• • The moon blocks the sun's light

• • The Earth's rotation slows down

What ancient Roman festival was associated with the Winter Solstice?

• • Saturnalia

• • Yule

• • Dongzhi

• • Sol Invictus

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What did the Vikings do to celebrate the Winter Solstice?

• • Celebrated with dragon boat races

• • Offered sacrifices to the gods

• • Lit bonfires and decorated evergreen trees

• • Hosted large family feasts

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What does the Chinese festival Dongzhi symbolize?

• • The longest night of the year

• • The end of harvest season

• • The arrival of winter

• • The start of a new calendar year

What traditional food is associated with the Dongzhi festival in China?

• • Mooncakes

• • Tangyuan (rice dumplings)

• • Spring rolls

• • Dumplings filled with meat

How did many ancient cultures view the Winter Solstice?

• • As a time of fear and darkness

• • As a time of hope and renewal

• • As a day to avoid work

• • As an omen of bad luck

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How do some people celebrate the Winter Solstice today?

• • By fasting and meditating

• • By lighting candles or bonfires

• • By decorating homes with flowers

• • By participating in sporting events

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What is the symbolic meaning of the Winter Solstice?

• • The victory of light over darkness

• • The start of colder weather

• • The end of farming season

• • The alignment of planets