- An important feature of the festival is the welcoming of Kasinas from the hills.
- Yalta is traditionally seen as the victory of light over darkness and the birthday of the sun god.
- The Spanish banned the festival, but it was revived in the 20th century.
- During this time there are special dishes such as dong yuan (glutinous rice balls).
- According to the Encyclopedia Britannica, the festival took place during the winter solstice and celebrated the end of the planting season.
The winter solstice is an important event of the year when the Northern Hemisphere experiences the shortest day and longest night. It falls on December 21 or 22 every year; This year, the day is observed on December 22 (Friday).
This event is rooted in the Earth’s axial tilt and has deep cultural, historical and astronomical significance. Over the years, people worldwide have recognized this important astronomical event and celebrated the sun’s “return” in various ways.
List of some solstice traditions
Soyal: According to the Encyclopedia Britannica, it is a winter solstice celebration of the Hopi Indians of northern Arizona. Rituals and rituals include purification, dancing and sometimes gift-giving. An important feature of the festival is the welcoming of Kasinas from the hills.
Yalda: The Persian (modern-day Iran) festival dates back to ancient times and it marks the final day of the Persian month of Azar. Yalda is traditionally visible as the victory of light over darkness and the birthday of the sun god.
Inti Raymi: This celebration is held in honor of the sun god and has been going on since the time of the Incans. It continues; In ancient times, festivals included feasts and sacrifices of animals. The Spanish banned the festival, but it was revived in the 20th century.
Saturnalia: The ancient Roman festival is very closely connected with modern celebrations during Christmas. According to the Encyclopedia Britannica, the festival took place during the winter solstice and celebrated the end of the planting season.
Dong Zhi: It is an important festival in China during this period. It’s time for the family to get together and celebrate the birth year. During this time there are special dishes such as dong yuan (glutinous rice balls).
Astronomically, the winter solstice occurs when the North Pole tilts farthest from the Sun, plunging the Northern Hemisphere into extended darkness. At the same time, the Southern Hemisphere experiences its summer solstice, basking in long days of sunlight.
