In December, the Earth is tilted on its axis at an angle of approximately 23.5 degrees. This tilt causes the amount of sunlight reaching the Earth's surface to vary throughout the year. As the Earth orbits the Sun, its tilted axis changes the angle at which sunlight reaches different parts of the planet. During winter in the Northern Hemisphere, the North Pole is tilted away from the Sun. This results in the Northern Hemisphere receiving less direct sunlight, which leads to colder temperatures and shorter days. However, as the Earth continues its orbit, the Northern Hemisphere will gradually receive more sunlight, and the days will become longer. This process will eventually mark the arrival of spring in the Northern Hemisphere.

Winter

December marks the beginning of winter, characterized by colder temperatures and shorter days in the Northern Hemisphere. During this month, countries such as the United States, Mexico, Germany, Italy, Japan, Afghanistan, Egypt, and Morocco typically experience cold weather. In contrast, countries located in the Southern Hemisphere, including South Africa, Namibia, Chile, Argentina, New Zealand, Australia, and Tonga, enjoy warmer temperatures in December. Some regions around the world may also experience snowfall. In the United States, for example, areas like New York and Massachusetts often receive snow, as do Quebec and Ontario in Canada, and the Pyrenees and Alsace in France. Bavaria and the Alps in Germany frequently see snow in December as well.

In the Southern Hemisphere, snowfall can occur in the provinces of Mendoza and San Juan in Argentina, the Andes mountains in Chile, and Australia’s Snowy Mountains in New South Wales and the Victorian Alps. The Czech Republic can also receive snowfall, particularly in its mountainous regions. Additionally, December features shorter days, with the winter solstice occurring on December 21 or 22 in the Northern Hemisphere. This is the shortest day of the year and marks the official beginning of winter.

Holidays

December is a wonderful time of the year filled with many exciting holidays and observances. Here are some of them:

• Christmas Day (December 25): This day marks the birth of Jesus Christ, a significant holiday in Christianity.

• Boxing Day (December 26): A public holiday observed in the United Kingdom, Ghana, Canada, Australia, and other countries with British colonial histories.

• Kwanzaa (December 26 to January 1): A week-long celebration honouring African American culture and heritage, observed in the United States, Canada, and other countries with African diaspora communities.

• Hanukkah (dates vary, usually in December): A Jewish holiday that celebrates the re-dedication of the Temple in Jerusalem, observed in Israel, the United States, Canada, and other countries with Jewish populations.

• Omisoka (December 31): A Japanese New Year's Eve celebration.

• Las Posadas (December 16 to 24): A nine-day Mexican holiday commemorating the journey of Mary and Joseph.

• Bodhi Day (December 8): A Buddhist holiday celebrating the enlightenment of Siddhartha Gautama.

• Farmer's Day (December 4): A holiday in Ghana dedicated to appreciating the country’s farmers.

• World AIDS Day (December 1): A global health observance aimed at raising awareness about AIDS.

• International Day of Persons with Disabilities (December 3): A United Nations observance that promotes awareness and support for people with disabilities.

• St. Nicholas Day (December 6): A holiday celebrated in many European countries to commemorate the life of Saint Nicholas.

• Yule (Winter Solstice, usually December 21 or 22): A pagan holiday that celebrates the longest night of the year, observed in the United Kingdom, Ireland, and other countries with pagan or Wiccan communities.

• International Human Rights Day (December 10): A United Nations observance that promotes awareness and support for human rights.

Gift-giving

December is a popular time for gift-giving, as many people exchange presents with family and friends during the holiday season. This tradition of giving gifts is celebrated in numerous cultures to express love, appreciation, and kindness. Gift-giving helps strengthen relationships while allowing everyone to celebrate the joys of the holiday season together.

During December, common types of gifts exchanged include toys and games for children, as well as clothing and accessories for both children and adults. Electronics like smartphones, tablets, and laptops are also popular gift choices during the holiday season. Additionally, gift certificates for experiences such as concerts, plays, and sporting events are becoming increasingly popular. Some people opt to make charitable donations instead of exchanging gifts during this time.

Reasons for Gift-Giving in December

• Christmas: In many Christian households, gift-giving is a tradition that commemorates the Three Wise Men who presented gifts to the baby Jesus.

• Hanukkah: During Hanukkah, gifts are exchanged to celebrate the miracle of the oil that burned for eight days in the re-dedicated Temple in Jerusalem.

• Kwanzaa: Gifts are exchanged during Kwanzaa to promote the principles of the holiday, which include unity, self-determination, and collective work and responsibility.

Reflection and Renewal

As the year ends, December is a time for reflection, goal setting, and looking forward to the new year. Many individuals use this period to think about the past year—recognizing accomplishments, challenges, and lessons learned. It's an opportunity to let go of unhelpful patterns, relationships, or habits that no longer contribute to their well-being.

Practicing self-care and self-compassion is important during this transition, as it involves taking care of your physical, emotional, and mental health. Cultivating gratitude and fostering a positive mindset are essential aspects of end-of-year renewal, allowing individuals to focus on the good things in their lives as they prepare for the new year.

End-of-year renewal is a personal process, and everyone can create meaningful practices and traditions. Common activities include journaling or writing reflections, meditating or practicing mindfulness, and creating vision boards or setting intentions. Some people also engage in yoga, and other self-care activities, or spend time connecting with loved ones and their community.

December is a special month that offers a mix of cultural and religious significance, seasonal changes, global events, and personal meaning. What do you love about December?

REFERENCE

Information from https://www.britannica.com/science/winter-solstice and www.mint.gov.gh was used in this story.