Winter Solstice

The Observance of Beginning of Winter, also known as the Winter Solstice, is an astronomical event marking the shortest day and longest night of the year. It symbolises the return of the sun's presence in the sky, a turning point signalling that winter has officially began. As one of Earth's natural rhythms, it has significant influence on the cycle of plant and animal life. Many ancient cultures attached significant and spiritual importance to this event, perceiving it as a period of rebirth and renewal.

In the United Kingdom, the Winter Solstice has long been recognised and observed. Ancient circles of stones like Stonehenge, constructed around 2500BC, align perfectly with the setting sun on this day of the year, indicating its significance for early Britons. Today, this event still resonates with the people in the UK. Events such as festive gatherings, bonfires, feasts, and musical concerts are common, often acting as a form of community gathering to ward off the winter cold and dark.

The Current Observance of Beginning of Winter or the Winter Solstice in the United Kingdom often sees people gathering at ancient monuments like Stonehenge and Avebury to celebrate and acknowledge this turning point of the year. Despite the usual cold weather, many people wake up before dawn to be a part of these large gatherings for sunrise. This tradition has been revitalised in recent years, attracting pagans, druids, and those simply interested in this astronomical event. The Winter Solstice typically falls between the 20th and 23rd of December each year in the northern hemisphere, including the United Kingdom. It is a time to acknowledge the cycle of nature and celebrate the lengthening of days to come.