So what is a 'solstice'? Solstice literally means 'Standing-Still-Sun' and happens twice a year, once in the winter and once in the summer. The winter solstice, (around 21st December) is the time of year when we, in the northern hemisphere, have our shortest day. This occurs because the earth has a tilt and our half of the world is leaning furthest away from the sun. Celebrations This important point in the sun's cycle has been celebrated all over the world for thousands of years. For the Norse it was Yule, for the Romans, Saturnalia, and it has now been Christianised into Christmas. But all of these celebrations have the same theme in common - the rebirth of the sun (or 'the son' in Christian terms).  It is the time when the dark half of the year turns into the light half and I often heave a sigh of relief at this time as I can feel the energies here in Wiltshire starting to expand and open out again.
Our ancestors were very keen to honour this time of the year and designed some of their stone circles/barrows to exactly pinpoint this turning point in the sun's journey. Stonehenge is a perfect marker of both solstices and the amazing New Grange barrow in Ireland is designed to receive a shaft of sunlight deep into its central chamber at dawn on the winter solstice. Traditions One way in which this time is acknowledged in Wiltshire is the by the lighting up of the white horse at Alton Barnes. Following an old tradition, people gather with tea lights in jars that are placed on the chalk so that the horse glows with candlelight. Let's hope the weather stays good for them this solstice! So how can you celebrate the 'return of the sun' in your home? One way is to have lots of light - fairy lights, candles and anything else that sparkles! The theme of this time is also about people gathering together to share food and merriment as we welcome back the sun and the brighter time of the year. Enjoy! Add your comment Viiki
After years of searching i finally feel like the winter festivities mean something special and not something religious. Emma Hanning
The best place to go for the Winter Solstice has to be StoneHenge, the Stones are only open for a short though, unlike the Summer Solstice where it's open all night. I prefer the Winter Solstice because there are less people who attend and you can get to the stones easier, rather than having to crawl over everyone like you do at the Summer.
It's well worth the trip.
I have been going now for 5 years and I never miss a Solstice.... Jacqui
What winter solstice celebrations are going on in 2006? keef
I'm thinking of visiting the area for winter solstice. Can anyone recommend where to go? Thank you tammy
I love the winter solstice celebration! It has been my favorite since I was a little girl. Thankyou for supporting this beautiful time of year!
Blessed Be, Tammy Melissa
I enjoy reading the pages included on this site.It's comforting to know that I am not alone in celebrating the Goddess and God through nature and the Sabbats.Brightest blessings! druantia
blessed be to all this yuletide. blessings for a bright and bountiful new year JillDuffin
also bright blessings thankyou Jill duffin
how wonderful our pagan beliefs are to be shared ken goulder
what a wonderful story.sure makes sense.mrs.summer stjohn keep up the good work! thanks ken from calgary
Click here to return to The Celtic Wheel of the Year
| 
