The winter solstice, or hibernal solstice, occurs when either of Earth 's poles reaches its maximum tilt away from the Sun. This happens twice yearly, once in each hemisphere (Northern and Southern).

5 days ago · When is the winter solstice? In 2025, the first day of winter is Saturday, December 21. So, what is the winter solstice and why does it happen? Learn all about the shortest day of the year—and …

Astronomical winter begins at the winter solstice, which is the shortest day of the year. This means days get longer during winter—very slowly at first, but at ever-larger daily intervals as the March equinox …

2 days ago · This year's winter solstice will bring the fewest hours of daylight. What to know about this seasonal change.

19 hours ago · The winter solstice is on Dec. 21, 2025, marking the official start of winter. Here's what it means, both astronomically and symbolically.

Dec 11, 2025 · The winter solstice has long marked a time of rebirth, behind it are fascinating astronomical events.

1 day ago · Sunday is the shortest day of the year north of the equator, where the solstice marks the start of astronomical winter. It’s the opposite in the Southern Hemisphere, where it is the longest day ...

3 days ago · The 2025 winter solstice falls on Sunday, Dec. 21, marking the shortest day and longest night of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. Here’s what it all means.

Dec 8, 2025 · December 21 (or December 22) is the shortest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. On this day, known as the winter solstice, the Sun in the sky is the farthest south and …

Dec 10, 2025 · Astronomical winter begins Sunday, Dec. 21 in the Northern Hemisphere. Here's how the solstice works.