The solstices are when the Earth’s poles reach its maximum tilt away from/ towards the Sun. During the winter solstice, which happens twice a year, the hemisphere furthest from the sun experiences the shortest day and longest night of the year. During the days around the winter solstice, the sun is so low on the horizon that it appears to rise and set in the same place. That’s why the word solstice can be translated to “sun stands still’ in Latin.
The winter solstice is the astronomical first day of winter, which lasts until the vernal equinox. In comparison, the first day of the winter season is determined by temperature records, which is called the meteorological first day of winter.
Also known as the hibernal solstice, the winter solstice is seen as the middle of winter. During this time, many ancient cultures marked the occasion with festivals and rites, celebrated as the symbolic death and rebirth of the Sun. Some celebrations during the winter solstice from around the world are Kwanzaa (African-American), Soyal (Hopi), Jul (Scandinavian), Cassave/Dreaming (Taino), Chanukah (Jewish), Christmas (Christian), Festival of Hummingbirds (Quecha). Goddess Festivals: Freya (Norse), Lucia (Italy, Sweden), Sarasvati (India).
How to Celebrate Winter Solstice: Ritual Ideas
- Candle Ritual: Candles are traditionally used in many Winter Solstice rituals, representing prosperity and welcoming in the coming light of the sun. You can go deeper into it and use specific coloured candles to symbolise what you wish to draw in or release over this season. Burn the candle till the end to keep the darkness at bay during the longest night.
- Yule Log: a holiday celebration that began in Norway, the evening is welcomed by burning a log of wood in the fire to celebrate the return of the sun. The original Yule log was a large log that burned throughout the entire multiday festival, for as many as 12 days. A popular modern take on the Yule log is a roulade-style cake decorated to look like a log. This is a powerful ritual that connects us to ancient traditions, when our ancestors would gather around fires to celebrate survival through the darkest days of the year.
- Watch the Sunrise: Wake up early on the winter solstice to see the sun rise after the longest night!
- Reflect on the past year: Enjoy a quiet moment to reflect on the past year. You can journal the lessons you learnt or list everything you wish to let go of that no longer serves you, and set an intention for the coming year. This simple ritual helps to create space for new opportunities and habits to be germinated. Empowering you to step into your new phase with purpose and intention.
- Make a wreath: Hang mistletoe and a wreath to celebrate the solstice’s connection to nature. If you have holly, ivy, pinecones, or any evergreen, bring them inside to decorate the table or mantle. This is a beautiful way to symbolise everlasting life, protection, and prosperity.
This is a time of death and rebirth. Celebrate in a way that feels right to you and your current life. Fuel your body and take a moment to connect with yourself and nature. Enjoy the stillness of the night sky and make space for what is to come tomorrow. We wish you a splendid Winter Solstice!
