Winter has officially arrived, even if temperatures don’t yet reflect it, and there’s a silver lining: the days will soon start to get longer again.
This year, the first day of winter is marked by the winter solstice, which occurs on December 21, 2024. The solstice happens when the Earth’s axis is tilted farthest away from the sun, leading to the longest night and the shortest day of the year. According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, the solstice will take place at 4:21 a.m. EST.
While the solstice itself is a brief event, it signifies the beginning of winter in the Northern Hemisphere. Following this date, daylight will gradually increase, lifting the spirits of those who may find winter darkness a bit challenging.
The timing of the winter solstice can vary slightly each year, typically falling between December 20 and 23, due to the alignment of the calendar with Earth’s orbit. In 2024, winter officially begins on December 21, setting the stage for the cold fronts and festive traditions that characterize the season.
As a point of reference, winter will come to a close on March 20, 2025, allowing everyone to look forward to the arrival of spring and the rejuvenation it brings.
In summary, as we embrace the chillier months ahead, keep in mind that the return of longer days is just around the corner, offering hope and anticipation for brighter times ahead.