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Winter Solstice 2026

Cultural · Global

Shortest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere

Date 2026
Tuesday, 22 December 2026
Countdown
277 days away
Category
Cultural
Region
Global
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About Winter Solstice

The Winter Solstice around December 21–22 is the shortest day and longest night of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. It has been celebrated for millennia with festivals of light, including Yule (Germanic), Dongzhi (Chinese), and Shab-e Yalda (Iranian).

Traditions & Customs

  • Yule log (Germanic)
  • Dongzhi festival (Chinese)
  • Shab-e Yalda (Iranian)
  • Stonehenge sunrise gathering
  • Winter festivals

Frequently Asked Questions

When is Winter Solstice in 2026?

Tuesday, 22 December 2026 In India Standard Time (IST, UTC+5:30), the holiday begins at midnight (12:00 AM IST) on this date.

What is Winter Solstice?

The Winter Solstice around December 21–22 is the shortest day and longest night of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. It has been celebrated for millennia with festivals of light, including Yule (Germanic), Dongzhi (Chinese), and Shab-e Yalda (Iranian).

Is Winter Solstice a public holiday in India?

Winter Solstice is observed in Global.