Bismarck, ND – The winter solstice, marking the shortest day and longest night of the year, occurs today, December 21. This celestial event officially begins winter in the Northern Hemisphere.
According to the National Weather Service, the solstice happens when Earth’s axial tilt positions the Northern Hemisphere farthest from the sun. At precisely 3:21 a.m. CST, the sun’s rays will shine directly over the Tropic of Capricorn.
For those in the Midwest, this means roughly 9 hours of daylight—far fewer than the summer solstice’s 15 hours. While the solstice marks the darkest day, it also signals the gradual return of longer daylight hours. Farmers, outdoor enthusiasts, and energy-conscious households often note this event as it impacts daily routines and seasonal activities.
Celebrate the solstice by embracing cozy winter traditions or stargazing on the longest night. Be sure to check sunrise and sunset times to plan your day.
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