The winter solstice of 2024: the exact time, why this day was so important for Ukrainians

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The winter solstice is the shortest day of the year. It usually falls on December 21 or 22, depending on whether it is a leap year.

When is the winter solstice in 2024

2024 is the winter solstice in Ukraine will take place on December 21 at 11:19 UTC+2.

What does the winter solstice mean as an astronomical phenomenon

Because of this, the duration of the world day on the day of the winter solstice is the shortest throughout the year. On December 21, 2024, it will be only 8 hours, 4 minutes and 17 seconds.

However, after the winter solstice, the length of the world day will gradually increase. During this period, astronomical winter begins in the Northern Hemisphere, and astronomical summer begins in the Southern Hemisphere. This will continue until the day of the summer solstice.

Winter solstice in the traditions of the Ukrainian people

In the Ukrainian traditions of pre-Christian times, there were beliefs and celebrations connected with the solstice. Our ancestors greatly respected the Sun, which gave the earth warmth and light.

Since the day begins to increase from the day of the winter solstice, our ancestors considered this moment the victory of the forces of good over evil, light over darkness.

On the night of the winter solstice, in ancient times there was a tradition of celebrating the Christmas Eve. He was a Slavic god who embodied the Sun.

People usually decorated their houses with Christmas tree branches, baked ritual bread in a round shape, lit a bonfire at night, which was supposed to “drive away” the darkness.

< h2>Folk omens on the day of the winter solstice

• The frost on the trees appeared on this day – next season there will be a large harvest of rye and wheat.
• It is raining – wait for the same rainy spring.
• Frosty weather – to a mild but snowy winter.
• What is the weather like on the day of the winter solstice – it will be the same on December 31.