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).

Dec 23, 2025 · During the winter solstice, the Sun travels the shortest path through the sky due to the axial tilt of Earth. That day therefore has the least daylight and the longest night.

Dec 18, 2025 · The solstice is an end of the sun's annual march higher or lower in the sky. The winter solstice is when the sun makes its shortest, lowest arc.

Sep 21, 2017 · The winter solstice is the shortest day and longest night of the year. In 2024, in the Northern Hemisphere, it takes place on December 21.

Dec 17, 2025 · This year's winter solstice will bring the fewest hours of daylight. What to know about this seasonal change.

Dec 11, 2025 · At the winter solstice, the sun travels the shortest path through the sky, resulting in the day of the year with the least sunlight and therefore, the longest night.

Feb 25, 2025 · The winter solstice marks the shortest day of the year, occurring around December 21 in the Northern Hemisphere. This event happens when the North Pole is tilted farthest from the sun.

The winter solstice marks the exact moment when half of Earth is tilted the farthest away from the sun. It usually happens on December 21 or 22, at the exact same second around the world.

Dec 24, 2025 · The winter solstice marks the official beginning of astronomical winter (as opposed to meteorological winter, which starts about 3 weeks before the solstice). It occurs once a year in each …

Dec 24, 2022 · The winter solstice in the Northern Hemisphere, or northern half of the Earth, happens annually on December 21 or 22. It marks the shortest day of the year with the least amount of sunlight.