Winter begins during the winter solstice when the North Pole is tilted the farthest from the sun.
This astronomical event marks the shortest day and longest night of the year. As a result, the angle at which sunlight reaches the Earth is at its lowest, casting long and pronounced shadows. This phenomenon is most noticeable around noon, the time when the sun is at its highest point in the sky for the day.
Many cultures celebrate the winter solstice with celebrations, feasts, and honoring nature.