December Solstice in Mexico ― Date, History, and Details
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History of December Solstice in Mexico and How to Celebrate/ Observe It
The December solstice occurs every year on December 21 in Mexico. This is the day when the sun is at its southernmost point in the sky and the days are shortest. The word solstice comes from the Latin solstitium, which means “sun standing still.”
During the December solstice, the sun shines directly over the Tropic of Capricorn. This is a latitude line that runs through the middle of Mexico. In the northern hemisphere, the December solstice marks the start of winter. In the southern hemisphere, it marks the start of summer.
In Mexico, the December solstice is known as el día del sol invierno (the day of the winter sun). It’s a time when people celebrate the sun’s return after the longest night of the year. Festivals and parties are held all over the country.
In some parts of Mexico, the December solstice is also seen as a time to honor the goddess Tonantzin. She is the Aztec goddess of earth and fertility. Offerings are made to her during this time to ensure a good harvest in the coming year.