The winter solstice occurs when the North or South pole of the Earth reaches its maximum tilt away from the Sun. In the northern hemisphere, this occurs in December; in the southern hemisphere it happens in June.

Also known as Midwinter, Yule, the Longest Night, and Jól, this solstice marks the beginning of lengthening days and shortening nights. In many cultures, it is a time of celebration with feasting, bonfires, festivals and more.

Solstice Celebrations

Some historians believe the pagans (people who worship several gods) of ancient Europe viewed the winter solstice as the time when souls entered eternity. That’s why, they say, tombs were built to face the direction of the rising midwinter sun.

Other pagans simply celebrated the cycle of life and the rebirth of the sun. Modern-day holiday symbols such as mistletoe and evergreens, plants that don’t go dormant in winter, wreaths, and candles have been incorporated from pagan traditions.

Today, the solstice is celebrated in a number of ways -- decorating "solstice trees," exchanging solstice greeting cards and gifts, lighting candles, and attending solstice celebrations.