The Winter Solstice of 2024 is set to occur on December 21 at 12:20 PM Moscow time, marking the shortest day and longest night of the year. This astronomical event is celebrated and acknowledged across regions, especially within the Northern Hemisphere, ushering in the official start of winter.
On this day, residents of various cities will experience significant variations in daylight. For example, residents of Novosibirsk will witness the sun rising at 9:30 AM and setting as early as 4:30 PM, yielding barely seven hours of daylight. Meanwhile, the capital of Russia, Moscow, will see the sun for only about 6 hours and 59 minutes, with dawn breaking at 8:59 AM and sunset just before 4 PM. For those located even farther north, such as Polar Zori, the sun will only be above the horizon for a mere 17 minutes!
The reason for these drastic differences lies predominantly with the axial tilt of Earth. During the winter solstice, the sun reaches its southernmost point from the celestial equator—23.5 degrees south of it, resulting in the sun taking its lowest position relative to the horizon. This low angle limits the amount of sunlight reaching the Northern Hemisphere, rendering the longest night of the year.
The cultural significance of the winter solstice is equally noteworthy. Historically, many ancient civilizations oriented their temples to align with the sun during solstice days, celebrating the rebirth of light after the solstice. Various rituals, passed down through generations, reflect this historical reverence. For example, many Russians engage in cleansing rituals to welcome the return of longer days, believing it drives away negativity.
Folklore offers various insights associated with the day. It is said, "If the sun shines bright on the winter solstice, it will forecast abundant harvests for the year to come," illustrating the connection between weather on this day and future prosperity. There are warnings too; many believe negative emotions during this day will intensify, advising people to practice peace and goodwill.
Despite the somber reputation of the winter solstice as the day with the least sunlight, it also marks the beginning of increasing daylight hours. Following this day, citizens can look forward to gradual increments of sunlight, signaling the eventual arrival of spring. The balance of dark and light, never losing its significance, is transformed from despair to hope. Indeed, after winter solstice, expectations of warmth and longer days encourage many communities to embrace the change.
Seasonality impacts the outdoor activities. With temperatures typically dropping, residents still find solace on sunny days, taking strolls or engaging in winter sports or family gatherings. The sun may not rise as high, but those moments under its light are cherished, reminding everyone to appreciate even the briefest appearances of warmth.
With the history of this day saturated with diverse traditions and meanings, winter solstice celebrations serve as reminders of resilience and the cyclical nature of life, reinforcing the belief of renewal and anticipation for brighter days. So as you bundle up this December 21st, pay homage to the rhythms of nature and partake if you can, in the myriad customs to celebrate this day of light and darkness.
Despite the chill, communities cross generations and borders, gathering to reflect on the past year, share stories, and extend hopeful wishes for the year to come. Little by little, as the sun rises ever so slightly higher each day, the shared spirit of connection might just warm the coldest winter nights.
