The term solstice has a literal meaning of “standing sun”. There are two solstices during the year, summer and winter solstice.
The winter solstice, also known as the hibernal solstice, begins on December 21st. Solstice happens twice a year, on each hemisphere and occurs when either of Earth’s poles reaches its maximum tilt away from the sun. The Earth’s axis is tilted 23.4 degrees in the Northern Hemisphere.
With fewer daylight hours, allowing less light, hence the “shortest day”. Only 8 hours and 49 minutes, shorter than the summer solstice. The sun travels the shortest path through the sky, resulting in the longest night.
For pagans, Yule is a celebration of light. The festival of rebirth. Early pagan winter solstice traditions were created to celebrate the “birth of the sun”.
Remember to stay warm for the winter, and have a happy holiday!
