Aug 31 2009
Pagan Holidays: The Winter Solstice
What is the winter solstice?
The winter solstice has been celebrated for thousands of years by many ancient and modern cultures. Many modern holidays also take place near the time of the winter solstice.
The winter solstice marks the longest night and shortest day of the year–opposite of the summer solstice.
Check out Wikipedia for a brief scientific explanation.
For complete current and future winter solstice and equinox dates, check out this comprehensive timetable. This year’s winter solstice will take place on December 21st, 2009 (in the evening for most of our readers).
Lots of dark–so what?
The winter solstice is the longest night of the year. It’s generally accepted that this is a cause for cheer–mostly because we need cheer during such a dark and cold time. This need hasn’t changed through the years. For this reason, many ancient holidays and modern gatherings exist near the time of the winter solstice…an event usually encouraging participants to produce light and warmth.
What does the winter solstice mean to me?
For me, the winter solstice is a time of reconciliation and reflection. Instead of celebrating in solace, I prefer to spend time around others and provide/receive comfort during the dark winter months. This is a concept reinforced by a loosely Christian upbringing and a midwinter tradition in my Celtic-inspired pagan beliefs.
What does the winter solstice mean to you? How do you celebrate (or not celebrate) the winter solstice?
