Winter solstice

Winter Solstice: Embracing the Shortest Day of the Year with Icy Plunges and Festive Celebrations

Join the winter solstice celebrations around the world as people mark the beginning of astronomical winter with icy swims and street parties!

Today, on the 20th or 21st of June, the southern hemisphere experiences the winter solstice, with the shortest day and the longest night of the year. Antarctic researchers even celebrated this phenomenon with a chilling swim, braving the icy waters to the curious gazes of seals. In New Zealand and Adelaide's southern suburbs, residents commemorate the winter solstice with morning dips and gatherings, connecting to the spiritual significance of the day.

As the June full moon coincides with the winter solstice, it sparks discussions on the impact of the event on weather patterns, daylight hours, and personal reflections. Along the East Coast, enthusiasts like the Newy Sandrays embrace the day with ocean swims, adding a refreshing start to the shortest day of the year. Despite the darkness of winter setting in, the beauty of nature prevails, symbolized by the oranges reaching their peak on trees, offering visual delight and nourishment.

Intriguingly, while the winter solstice marks the start of astronomical winter in the southern hemisphere, it signifies the beginning of summer in the northern hemisphere. Australians woke up to less than 10 hours of sunlight on this special day, with freezing temperatures prevailing. The winter solstice ocean swim at Nobbys beach in Newcastle drew over 70 swimmers, alongside whales and dolphins, celebrating the event in the brisk waters.

The fascinating tradition of the winter solstice continues to unite people worldwide in revelry, from icy plunges in Antarctica to vibrant street parties in Brighton. As we embrace the shortest day of the year, let's remember the symbolic significance of this celestial event and the communal spirit it fosters.