Today, December 21, 2025, Northern Hemisphere residents experience the shortest day of the year. It was the winter solstice that officially started at 16:03 Polish time (CET), welcoming us in astronomical winter. This moment marks the turning point in the solar cycle, after which days begin to gradually extend.

What is the winter solstice?

The winter solstice occurs when the Earth's axis is the most inclined towards the Sun, causing our planet's hemisphere to receive the least sunlight during the day. In Poland and other countries of the Northern Hemisphere, this means that the day lasts only about 8 hours and the night lasts 16 hours. The exact solstice time in 2025 is 15:03 UTC, which, after being converted into local time, is 16:03.

This astronomical phenomenon not only affects the length of the day, but also symbolizes the beginning of winter. Although the weather winter begins on December 1, the winter solstice marks its astronomical start.

Trivia of the shortest day of the year

History and traditions: The winter solstice has been celebrated for centuries in many cultures. The ancient Romans celebrated Saturnalia and the Celts celebrated Yule. Today, in some countries, like Scandinavia, light festivals are organized to disperse the winter darkness.
Impact on Nature: After that day, the sun will start setting later. By the summer solstice in June, the days will extend by a few hours.
Records: In places close to the North Pole, as in Norway, the sun does not rise at all during this period – it is a polar night. In the southern hemisphere, today is the longest day of the year.

What will astronomical winter bring?

Astronomical winter will last until the spring equinox in March 2026. During this time we can expect colder temperatures, snow and shorter days, but also magical Christmas and New Year. This is the perfect time to enjoy the warmth of the home fire, tea and planning New Year's resolutions.

If you feel the days are too short, remember: from tomorrow it will only get better!