What Is a Solstice?
A solstice is one of the two moments each year when the Sun reaches its farthest point north or south of the equator. In the Northern Hemisphere, the June solstice (around June 20–21) brings the longest day of the year and the December solstice (around December 21–22) the shortest; the Southern Hemisphere experiences the reverse.
Why Dates Shift
The calendar year and the solar year do not match exactly, so the solstice can fall on slightly different dates from year to year.
Seasons
Solstices mark the astronomical start of summer and winter.
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🔗 Related Terms
More Time & Dates Terms
- 24-Hour Clock (Military Time)
- Business Days
- Calendar Quarter
- Chronological Age
- Coordinated Universal Time (UTC)
- Daylight Saving Time (DST)
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Last updated: September 29, 2026. This definition is for general educational purposes only. It is not financial, investment, tax, legal, or medical advice, and it does not recommend any product or course of action. For decisions about your own situation, consult a qualified professional.