Winter solstice: Quick Facts

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Facts

Also Known As	hibernal solstice

Photos and Videos

Diagram showing Earth's orbit around the Sun with labeled positions for the summer solstice, winter solstice, vernal equinox, and autumnal equinox, illustrating how Earth's tilt causes the seasons.

Diagram showing Earth's orbit around the Sun with positions for the June solstice, when the Sun is overhead at the Tropic of Cancer, and the December solstice, when the Sun is overhead at the Tropic of Capricorn. The illustration labels the North Pole, South Pole, Equator, and Earth's orbital path, highlighting how the solstices relate to Earth's tilt and seasonal changes.

A large crowd of people, many dressed in red and festive clothing, gather among the standing stones at Stonehenge to celebrate the winter solstice.

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A large tree with leaves turning orange in fall.

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Topics

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