The 2022 winter solstice is near. Here’s what to expect on the shortest day of the year
The days are getting colder and darker.
The start of the winter season, also known as the winter solstice is only a few days away, bringing the shortest day of the year upon us.
Thankfully, everyday after the winter solstice will start to become longer until the summer solstice — the longest day of the year.
What is the winter solstice?
The start of the winter season in the Northern Hemisphere is kicked off by the winter solstice. It is also the shortest day and longest night of the year.
During the winter solstice, the Earth will orbit tilting “at the greatest angle of the plane of its orbit, causing one hemisphere to receive more daylight than the others.” In the Northern Hemisphere this will create “the most indirect sunlight, causing cooler temperatures,” stated NASA in a blog post.
When is the winter solstice?
This year the winter solstice will begin on Dec. 21.
Though it can also be observed on Dec. 20, 21, 22 or 23 according to Time and Date an online world clock and calendar. It is more likely for the winter solstice to land on Dec. 20 or Dec. 21. The last winter solstice that landed on Dec. 23 was back in 1903.
What time will sunrise and sunset happen?
In Sacramento, sunrise will be at 7:20 a.m. and sunset will be at 4:48 p.m. on Dec. 21.
This means you can expect to see just 9 hours and 28 minutes of sunlight on the winter solstice. Compared to the summer solstice where we see 14 hours and 51 minutes of sunlight. That is 5 hours and 23 minutes of additional vitamin D.
Here is how to celebrate in Sacramento
If you want to celebrate the start of the winter season in Sacramento there are a few events happening around town.
Huitzilopochtli/Solstice Celebration
When: 10 a.m. Dec. 17
Where: 2850 49th St., Sacramento
What to expect: The Ixtatutli of Sacramento, a nonprofit focused engaging youth in indigenous practices, is sponsoring a winter solstice ceremony at the Language Academy. There will be dance performances to honor the winter season ahead.
Winter Solstice Celebration
When: 7 p.m. Dec. 19
Where: virtual event
What to expect: Participate in a virtual meditation followed by poetry and music. The event will be hosted by Valley Streams Zen Sangha in Sacramento.
Winter Solstice Sound Bath
When: 7 p.m. Dec. 21
Where: 3230 Broadway, Sacramento
What to expect: Rise Yoga is hosting a sound meditation. The event is $40 per person to attend.
Queer City: Winter Solstice Night Market
When: 5 p.m. Dec. 18
Where: 730 K St., Sacramento
What to expect: Solomon’s, a bagel shop and community gathering place, hosts a monthly Queer City event, but this month it is also celebrating the winter solstice the same night. You’ll have the opportunity to shop local owned small businesses. The event is free.