December, the twelfth and final month of the Gregorian calendar, is a month full of history, traditions, and holiday celebrations. Whether you’re enjoying the winter charm in the northern hemisphere or basking in the summer sun in the southern hemisphere, December holds a special place in our hearts.
Did you know that December originally had 30 days but gained an extra day to become the seventh month with 31 days? It’s also the month when winter officially begins in the northern hemisphere, bringing with it a sense of coziness and festive cheer.
December has witnessed significant historical events, such as the birth of the legendary Walt Disney on December 5, 1901, and the dissolution of the USSR on December 8, 1991. It’s the month when Alfred Nobel, the founder of Nobel Prizes, passed away on December 10, 1896.
The Anglo-Saxon names for December, “Winter Monath” and “Yule Monath,” reflect the season’s magical charm. Speaking of magic, December hosts a plethora of holidays, including Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa, spreading joy and love around the world.
But December isn’t just about holidays. It’s also a month filled with fun days like National Brownie Day and National Cupcake Day. In the United States, December is observed as National Egg Nog Month, National Fruit Cake Month, and National Impaired Driving Prevention Month.
December has its interesting quirks too. For instance, December 28th has long been considered the unluckiest day of the year. Yet, those born in December are blessed with holly and paperwhite narcissus as their birth flowers, adding a touch of natural beauty to their lives.
As the winter solstice occurs in December, we witness the shortest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, a reminder of the eternal cycle of seasons. And let’s not forget the dazzling spectacle of the Geminid meteor shower, lighting up the night sky on December 13.
December’s birthstones, turquoise, zircon, and tanzanite, reflect its unique character, while the zodiac signs of Sagittarius and Capricorn guide those born during this month.
So, whether you’re decorating your Christmas tree, sipping warm cocoa by the fireplace, or indulging in holiday treats, December is a month of wonder, celebration, and cherished memories.
Key Takeaways:
- December is the twelfth and final month of the Gregorian calendar.
- It marks the beginning of winter in the northern hemisphere and the start of summer in the southern hemisphere.
- December has a rich history with notable events like the birth of Walt Disney and the dissolution of the USSR.
- It is known for its diverse holidays, including Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa.
- December is also a time for fun days like National Brownie Day and National Cupcake Day.
- The winter solstice and the Geminid meteor shower are natural phenomena that occur in December.
- Turquoise, zircon, and tanzanite are December’s birthstones, and Sagittarius and Capricorn are the astrological signs for the month.
The Origins of December
December, the final month of the year, has a fascinating history that dates back to ancient times. Let’s delve into the origins of this significant month and uncover its intriguing background.
In the ancient Roman calendar, December was originally considered the tenth month of the year. The name “December” is derived from the Latin word “decem,” meaning ten, reflecting its position in the Roman calendar. However, when Julius Caesar introduced his calendar reform in 45 BC, he added two additional months at the beginning of the year. As a result, December was pushed to the twelfth position, despite its name suggesting otherwise.
The ancient Romans celebrated various festivals and religious observances in December. One notable event is the Saturnalia, a week-long festival honoring Saturn, the Roman god of agriculture and time. This festival was marked by feasting, gift-giving, and general merriment.
Over time, December also became a significant month due to its association with Christmas. Although the exact date of Jesus’ birth is not known, December 25 was first identified as the date of Jesus’ birth by Sextus Julius Africanus in 221. Eventually, December 25 became widely accepted as the date to commemorate the birth of Jesus, leading to the global celebration of Christmas.
Throughout history, December has witnessed the development of many cherished traditions. The tradition of placing branches of fir trees in houses dates back to at least 1494, while fir trees decorated with apples were first known in Strasbourg in 1605. The first use of candles on Christmas trees dates back to 1611, adding a warm and festive glow to the holiday season.
Furthermore, December is home to various religious and cultural celebrations. The Advent wreath, made of fir branches with four candles, originated in the 19th century as a symbol of the Advent season leading up to Christmas. The Advent calendar tradition was also created in the 19th century, with the first commercial calendars printed in Germany in 1851. Additionally, December is a time for gift-giving, with the practice of giving gifts to family members at Christmas being established since the end of the 18th century. Christmas cards, another popular tradition, originated in England in the 19th century.
As we can see, December’s origins are deeply intertwined with the ancient Roman calendar, the reforms of Julius Caesar, and the traditions that have developed over centuries. Through the passage of time, December has become a beloved month filled with joy, celebration, and the spirit of giving.
Notable Events in December
December is a month full of noteworthy events that have shaped history. From the birth of Walt Disney, to the dissolution of the USSR, to the Battle of the Bulge, let’s explore some significant occurrences that have taken place in December.
Birth of Walt Disney and the Creation of Mickey Mouse
December 5, 1901, marks the birth of an entertainment icon, Walt Disney. The legendary animator, film producer, and entrepreneur founded the Walt Disney Company, a global leader in the entertainment industry. It was in December 1928 that Mickey Mouse made his debut in the animated short film “Steamboat Willie,” captivating audiences with his charm and becoming one of Disney’s most beloved characters.
Dissolution of the USSR
On December 26, 1991, the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) was officially dissolved, bringing an end to the Cold War era. This historic event marked the disintegration of the world’s largest communist state, transforming the political landscape and paving the way for the emergence of independent nations.
Battle of the Bulge
The Battle of the Bulge, one of the largest battles fought during World War II, commenced on December 16, 1944. Lasting until January 25, 1945, it was a critical turning point in the war, as Allied forces successfully repelled a massive German offensive in the Ardennes region. The battle showcased the resilience and determination of the Allied troops, ultimately leading to the liberation of Western Europe.
Alfred Nobel and the Nobel Prize
December 10, 1896, marks the passing of Alfred Nobel, a Swedish inventor and philanthropist. Nobel is best known for establishing the Nobel Prizes in his will, which awards individuals who have made outstanding contributions in various fields, including physics, chemistry, literature, peace, and economic sciences.
United States Bill of Rights
On December 15, 1791, the United States Bill of Rights, the first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution, was ratified. These amendments guarantee fundamental individual rights and freedoms, such as freedom of speech, religion, and the right to a fair trial. The Bill of Rights remains a cornerstone of American democracy.
| Year | Notable Event |
|---|---|
| 1773 | Boston Tea Party: Colonists protest taxation without representation by throwing tea into Boston Harbor. |
| 1903 | First powered flight by Orville Wright, lasting approximately 12 seconds. |
| 1939 | Discovery of nuclear fission by German chemists Otto Hahn and Fritz Strassmann. |
| 1989 | Overthrow of Panamanian dictator Manuel Noriega during the United States invasion of Panama. |
| 2009 | Reopening of the Leaning Tower of Pisa to the public after a 12-year restoration effort. |
December Traditions and Customs
December is a month filled with rich traditions and customs that have evolved over centuries. From the Anglo-Saxon names for December to the burning of a Yule log, this month holds significant cultural and religious celebrations. Let’s explore some of the intriguing customs that make December a special time of the year.
Anglo-Saxon Names for December
In ancient times, the Anglo-Saxons referred to December as “Winter Monath” and “Yule Monath.” The latter name, “Yule Monath,” reflects the celebration of Yule, a festival held by the Norse in Scandinavia. Yule festivities would begin on December 21, the winter solstice, and continue through January, lasting up to 12 days. This period marked the rebirth of the sun and the gradual return of longer days.
Burning a Yule Log
A notable December tradition associated with Yule is the burning of a Yule log. This custom originated in Scandinavia and spread across Europe. Families would select a large log, typically from an oak tree, decorate it with evergreens and ribbons, and ceremoniously set it ablaze on the winter solstice. The Yule log represented warmth, light, and good fortune during the darkest time of the year.
December as the Holy Month
With the advent of Christianity, December took on an additional significance as the “Holy Month.” The birth of Jesus Christ is celebrated on December 25th, marking the holiday of Christmas. This joyful occasion is observed by Christians worldwide through religious services, gift-giving, and festive gatherings. Additionally, December is home to other significant religious holidays, including Hanukkah and Kwanzaa, which are celebrated by Jewish and African diaspora communities, respectively.
Modern Traditions and Customs
Alongside these historical customs, December has given rise to modern traditions that bring joy and merriment to people of all ages. The practice of sending holiday cards became popular in the 19th century. In 1843, England introduced the first official Christmas card, and since then, mailing winter holiday greetings through cards has become a cherished tradition in both Britain and the U.S. In 1915, Hall Brothers (now Hallmark) created cards with envelopes, further solidifying the practice.
The tradition of giving back and spreading goodwill is also prevalent during the December holiday season. Many Americans engage in charitable activities and volunteer work, embracing the spirit of generosity and compassion. The festive atmosphere extends to the world of entertainment as well, with iconic performances like the Radio City Music Hall Rockettes’ Christmas Spectacular, which has been delighting audiences since 1925.
Winter and Summer in December
December brings contrasting seasons depending on the hemisphere. In the northern hemisphere, it marks the beginning of winter, with shorter days and colder temperatures. Winter in December lasts for 90 days, from December 21st to March 20th. It is a time when snow blankets the landscape, and the largest snowflake ever observed was an impressive 15 inches wide and 8 inches thick. The coldest temperature ever recorded in the U.S. was a bone-chilling 70 degrees below zero in Rogers Pass, Montana, on January 20, 1954.
However, in the southern hemisphere, December ushers in summer, with longer days and warmer weather. It is a time for beach trips and outdoor activities. As the northern hemisphere experiences the winter solstice, the southern hemisphere enjoys the summer solstice. The winter solstice, which occurs around December 21st, is the shortest day of the year in the northern hemisphere. Conversely, it marks the longest day of the year in the southern hemisphere.
Meteorologically, December 1 is considered the beginning of winter, but astronomically, the winter solstice is recognized as the start of the season. The word “solstice” originates from the Latin term ‘solstitium,’ meaning “the point at which the sun stands still.” On the winter solstice, the shadows cast by the sun are at their longest due to its lowest arc across the sky. It is a remarkable astronomical event that captivates people around the world.
Interestingly, the winter solstice has occasionally coincided with a full moon. Since 1793, this rare occurrence has happened only 10 times, with the last instance in 2010. The next full moon on the winter solstice is expected to be a sight to behold in 2094.
Seasons and Distance from the Sun
The Earth’s distance from the sun does not directly determine the seasons. Despite its varying proximity to the sun, seasons are actually caused by the Earth’s axial tilt of 23.5°. This tilt results in different amounts of sunlight reaching different parts of the Earth as it orbits the sun.
While the Earth is closest to the sun (perihelion) in early January, it experiences winter in the northern hemisphere due to its tilted axis. Similarly, the Earth is farthest from the sun (aphelion) in early July, yet the southern hemisphere experiences winter during that time. The shifting distance from the sun primarily affects the intensity of seasons, but the tilt remains the primary driver of seasonal changes.
The Earth also experiences two equinoxes each year. During these equinoxes, there are nearly equal hours of daylight and darkness at different latitudes. Day length varies depending on latitude, ranging from about 12 hours and 6.5 minutes at the equator to 12 hours and 16 minutes at 60 degrees latitude during the equinox.
So, while December brings winter in the northern hemisphere and summer in the southern hemisphere, it showcases the fascinating interplay between the Earth’s tilt, solstices, and seasonal variations around the globe.
December Holidays
December is a month filled with joyous celebrations and cherished traditions. It encompasses a wide array of holidays that bring people together to celebrate, reflect, and create lasting memories. Let’s explore some of the notable holidays that make December truly special.
Christmas
Christmas is undoubtedly the most widely recognized December holiday, celebrated by millions around the world. It commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ and symbolizes love, peace, and goodwill. Families gather to exchange gifts, decorate Christmas trees, sing carols, and indulge in festive feasts. The holiday season is also marked by vibrant displays of lights, sparkling decorations, and enchanting music.
Hanukkah
Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is an eight-day Jewish celebration that typically falls in December. It symbolizes the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem and the miracle of the oil that lasted for eight days. Families light the menorah, play dreidel games, sing songs, and enjoy delicious fried foods like latkes and sufganiyot.
Kwanzaa
Kwanzaa is a week-long celebration of African-American culture and heritage. It takes place from December 26th to January 1st and was created in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga. Each day of Kwanzaa focuses on a different principle, such as unity, self-determination, collective work, and responsibility. Families gather to light the Kinara, exchange symbolic gifts, and engage in meaningful discussions and reflections.
Other December Holidays
In addition to Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa, December is home to various other holidays and observances. Here are just a few:
- National Christmas Lights Day (December 1st) – A day dedicated to appreciating the beauty of holiday lights displays.
- St. Nicholas Day (December 6th) – A day honoring the legendary figure known for his generosity and gift-giving.
- Pearl Harbor Day (December 7th) – A day to remember and honor the lives lost during the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941.
- National Brownie Day (December 8th) – A day to indulge in the deliciousness of brownies.
- Festivus (December 23rd) – A secular holiday that emerged from the TV show “Seinfeld” and celebrates simplicity and non-commercialism.
- New Year’s Eve (December 31st) – The final night of the year, celebrated with parties, fireworks, and the countdown to midnight.
As December unfolds, the holiday spirit envelops communities around the world. From the twinkling lights adorning homes to the joyful laughter filling the air, the month is truly a time of togetherness and celebration.
Join us in the upcoming sections as we continue to uncover fascinating facts and traditions associated with December. Stay tuned!
December Fun Facts
December is a month filled with fascinating facts and noteworthy events. Let’s explore some interesting tidbits about this special time of year.
Birth Flowers, Birthstones, and Zodiac Signs
December is associated with two beautiful birth flowers – holly and narcissus. These flowers symbolize love, joy, and good fortune.
Those born in December are fortunate to have three birthstones to choose from – turquoise, zircon, and tanzanite. These gemstones represent beauty, prosperity, and spiritual growth.
The zodiac signs for December are Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21) and Capricorn (December 22 – January 19). Sagittarians are adventurous and optimistic, while Capricorns are known for their ambition and practicality.
Winter Solstice, Full Moon, and Meteor Shower
December 21st marks the Winter Solstice, the shortest day of the year and the official start of winter. It’s a time when the Northern Hemisphere experiences the longest night and the least amount of daylight.
December also hosts the Full Cold Moon, named after the chilly temperatures. This mesmerizing sight illuminates the night sky and adds a touch of magic to winter evenings.
Additionally, nature treats us to the Geminid meteor shower in December. This celestial display showcases a shower of shooting stars, captivating stargazers around the world.
Traditional December Foods
December is a time of indulgence, and traditional foods play a significant role in holiday festivities. Delicious treats like eggnog and fruitcake grace our tables, evoking a sense of nostalgia and warmth.
While eggnog is a creamy, spiced drink often enjoyed during Christmas, fruitcake is a rich and dense cake filled with candied fruits and nuts. These foods are cherished culinary traditions that bring joy and comfort during the holiday season.
| December Fun Facts |
|---|
| December is the most profitable month of the year for the film industry. |
| December experiences the highest travel activity of any month throughout the year. |
| The Pearl Harbor attack occurred on December 7, 1941, resulting in the deaths of over 2,300 Americans. |
| The Battle of the Bulge began on December 16, 1944, leading to significant casualties of both German and Allied forces. |
| In 2019, the average American consumer spent around $900 on holiday-related expenses in December. |
| December has the fewest daylight hours of the year, making it the darkest month on the calendar. |
| Several prominent female pop stars, including Britney Spears, Nicki Minaj, Taylor Swift, and Billie Eilish, were born in December. |
| December marks the end of the year, leading many individuals to reflect on achievements and make plans for the future. |
| The legend of St. Nicholas is associated with December 6th. |
| The Winter Solstice, marking the start of winter, takes place on December 21st. |
| December 28th has been considered an unlucky day due to historical events such as the alleged massacre of male infants in Bethlehem. |
December Superstitions and Unlucky Days
December is a month filled with fascinating traditions and celebrations, but it also carries its fair share of superstitions and unlucky days. One notable date that stands out is December 28th, which has long been considered the unluckiest day of the year. The origins of this belief trace back to an event in Christ’s story.
In the biblical narrative, King Herod ordered the killing of all male infants in Bethlehem in an attempt to eliminate the threat posed by the birth of Jesus Christ. This horrific event has led to the superstition that starting new ventures or undertaking significant activities on December 28th may bring bad luck.
While many superstitions have diminished in significance over time, the association between December 28th and ill fortune remains noteworthy. It serves as a reminder of the historical impact that the birth of Jesus Christ and the subsequent events had on shaping cultural beliefs.
Throughout history, numerous other superstitions have emerged surrounding the holiday season. From animals manifesting unique behaviors on Christmas Eve to the interpretation of weather patterns during the twelve days of Christmas, these beliefs reflect the intertwining of religious narratives and lore.
Despite the superstitions surrounding specific dates in December, the holiday season remains a time of joy, celebration, and reflection. It’s a time for individuals to come together and embrace the spirit of giving, love, and togetherness.
As the 28th of December approaches, it’s important to recognize and respect the historical significance of this date. While superstitions may have evolved, it’s always interesting to delve into the stories that have shaped our collective beliefs and traditions.
Winter Charm and Activities
December is a month filled with winter charm and opportunities for delightful activities. As the winter solstice arrives in the Northern Hemisphere, it brings the shortest day of the year, marking the turning point when days slowly start getting longer again. This celestial event adds to the enchantment of the holiday season, making it the perfect time for a family holiday.
During winter break, many families take advantage of the holidays in December to spend quality time together. It’s a time to create lasting memories and engage in activities that bring joy and warmth to the season. One popular winter pastime is reading books by the fireplace, immersing oneself in captivating stories that transport us to different worlds. It’s an opportunity to spark imagination and foster a love for literature.
Another quintessential winter activity is building snowmen. The sight of freshly fallen snow invites us to go outside and bring whimsical characters to life. Whether it’s the traditional three-tiered snowman or more creative variations, building snowmen provides hours of laughter and bonding time with loved ones.
As the year draws to a close, December also holds significance for making New Year’s resolutions. It’s a time for reflection and setting goals for personal growth and self-improvement in the year ahead. From adopting healthier habits to pursuing new passions, New Year’s resolutions inspire us to embrace change and strive for a better version of ourselves.
December truly encompasses the essence of winter charm and offers an array of activities to enjoy. Whether it’s spending quality time with family, diving into captivating books, building snowmen, or setting New Year’s resolutions, this month is a perfect time to embrace the warmth and joy of the holiday season.
Astronomy in December
December offers a spectacular celestial display, with several astronomical phenomena to witness. The highlight of the month is the winter solstice, which marks the shortest day of the year and the longest night. This year, the December solstice will occur on December 21 at 10:20 UTC. The solstice can fall on December 20, 21, 22, or 23, although December 20 or 23 solstices are rare occurrences.
During the winter solstice, the Earth’s axial tilt of around 23.4 degrees causes different amounts of sunlight to reach the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. As a result, locations north of the equator experience shorter daylight hours and longer nights, while locations south of the equator have extended daylight hours.
One fascinating celestial event to observe during December is the Full Cold Moon. Named after the chilly winter weather, this full moon illuminates the sky with its radiant glow. In addition to the Full Cold Moon, sky enthusiasts can also look forward to the Geminid meteor shower, one of the most spectacular meteor showers of the year. The Geminids peak around mid-December and provide a dazzling display of shooting stars.
The longer nights and clearer skies of December make it an excellent time for winter stargazing. Grab a telescope or simply look up at the night sky to witness the beauty of the stars and constellations. Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or a casual observer, the mesmerizing display of stars in December is sure to captivate your imagination.
So, bundle up, find a cozy spot under the starry sky, and immerse yourself in the wonders of winter stargazing. The December solstice, Full Cold Moon, Geminid meteor shower, and the captivating celestial display await you.
December Holidays Around the World
December is a month filled with joyous celebrations and diverse traditions across the globe. From Christmas traditions to Hanukkah celebrations and Kwanzaa festivities, cultures around the world come together to honor their customs and spread cheer during this special time of year.
Christmas Traditions
Christmas, observed on December 25th, is a Christian celebration that has transcended religious boundaries and become a secular family holiday. It is a time of gift exchanges, festive decorations, and joyful gatherings. Santa Claus, inspired by the beloved Saint Nicholas, brings joy to children around the world by delivering presents on Christmas Eve.
Hanukkah Celebrations
Hanukkah, the eight-day Jewish holiday, occurs from December 18th to 26th. It commemorates the miracle of oil during the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. Each night, candles are lit on the menorah, symbolizing the eight days of illumination. Families come together to celebrate Hanukkah by playing games, giving gifts, and enjoying traditional foods like latkes and sufganiyot.
Kwanzaa Festivities
Kwanzaa is a week-long celebration honoring African-American heritage, observed from December 26th to January 1st. Created by Maulana Karenga in 1966, Kwanzaa focuses on seven key principles: Umoja (Unity), Kujichagulia (Self-Determination), Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility), Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics), Nia (Purpose), Kuumba (Creativity), and Imani (Faith). Families reflect on African traditions, light the Kinara, exchange gifts, and participate in community activities.
Global Celebrations, Customs, and Traditions
December is a month of global celebrations, customs, and traditions. Various countries and cultures have their own unique ways of observing this special time. For example, in Sweden, Saint Lucia Day is celebrated on December 13th, where young girls dress as Lucia, wearing crowns of candles, and bring light and joy to their communities. In Mexico and other parts of Latin America, Las Posadas is a vibrant nine-night celebration that reenacts Mary and Joseph’s search for lodging in Bethlehem. Festivities include processions, music, food, and the breaking of piñatas.
| Holiday | Date | Celebrated By |
|---|---|---|
| St. Nicholas Day | December 5 or 6 | Christians |
| Immaculate Conception Day | December 8 | Catholics |
| Bodhi Day | December 8 | Buddhists |
| Feast Day of Our Lady Guadalupe | December 12 | Mexicans and Mexican-Americans |
| Yule | December 21 to January 1 | Wiccans and Neo-Pagans |
| Boxing Day | December 26 | British tradition |
| Zarathosht Diso | December 26 | Zoroastrians |
| New Year’s Eve | December 31 | Global celebration |
These are just a few examples of the varied celebrations that take place around the world in December. The month is filled with diverse customs and traditions, allowing people to come together, embrace cultural diversity, and celebrate the joy of the holiday season.
Conclusion
December is a month that captivates with its rich history, unique traditions, and diverse celebrations. From significant historical events like the signing of the US Embargo Act in 1807 and the end of the War of 1812 with the signing of the Treaty of Ghent to the birth of important figures like the first gorilla named Colo in 1956, December has witnessed both triumphs and milestones.
Every year, December brings the joy of holidays and festivities, with December 25th being celebrated as the dies natalis of Sol Invictus. It is a time for families and friends to come together, exchange gifts, and share love and happiness. Whether it’s participating in winter activities, experiencing the magical full moon on the solstice, or indulging in delicious date nut bread, December offers something special for everyone.
As the year comes to a close, December invites us to reflect on the past and anticipate the future. It marks the beginning of Advent in Catholic tradition, reminding us to take time for introspection and preparation. The meteor showers of Geminids, Quadrantids, and Ursids grace the December sky, captivating stargazers with their awe-inspiring beauty.
As we bid farewell to the twelfth month of the year, let us cherish the memories made and the lessons learned throughout December. From the joyful celebrations to the historical milestones, December leaves an indelible mark on our hearts. Embrace the magic, cherish the traditions, and relish the beauty of December.
