The winter solstice is the moment when one of the Earth's poles is at its maximum tilt away from the Sun as recognized in the corresponding hemisphere. At this time, the Sun's maximum elevation in the sky is at its lowest. In the Northern Hemisphere, this occurs on either December 21 or 22, while in the Southern Hemisphere, this occurs on either June 20 or 21. It has commonly been recognized as the middle of the winter in temperate climates or, alternately as the official beginning of winter.

Many cultures throughout the world have interpreted this as the death and rebirth of the Sun or a Sun god, which stopped the Sun from continuing its trek south- or northward until it disappeared forever. As such, festivals at the winter solstice are commonly celebrated.

More Information

Winter solstice (Wikipedia)

Also see

• June (month)
• December (month)