December Solstice 2025
Solar Event
The December Solstice usually occurs between December 21 and 22 each year, when the Sun reaches its farthest point south of the celestial equator. This marks the shortest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere and the longest day in the Southern Hemisphere.
On this day, the Sun shines directly over the Tropic of Capricorn. The Northern Hemisphere receives the least amount of sunlight, while the Southern Hemisphere is in the peak of summer with abundant solar energy.
The December Solstice marks the first day of winter in the Northern Hemisphere and the beginning of summer in the Southern Hemisphere.
At this time, the Sun rises far to the southeast and sets to the southwest, creating the shortest span between sunrise and sunset — the reason why this is the shortest day of the year.