SALT LAKE CITY – The winter solstice, marking the shortest day and longest night of the year, is celebrated by many in Utah as a time for reflection and ritual. According to Monica Traphagan, a senior meteorologist for the National Weather Service, the winter solstice occurs between December 20 and December 22, when the northern hemisphere is tilted farthest away from the sun. This astronomical event signals the beginning of longer days ahead. For some, the solstice is an opportunity to set new goals and release things that no longer serve them. Emily Fuchs, an assistant manager at Golden Braid Books, explains that many people take this time to reflect on their aspirations and intentions for the coming year. The winter solstice can serve as a catalyst for personal growth and renewal. In addition to personal reflection, some individuals engage in specific rituals. One such tradition is the German-rooted "13 Wishes" ritual, where participants write down 13 wishes on slips of paper, starting on the solstice. Each night leading up to New Year's Day, one wish is burned, allowing the final wish to be kept as a personal intention. The significance of the winter solstice extends beyond individual practices. Jason Trump, an education programs supervisor at Clark Planetarium, emphasizes that recognizing the solstice connects individuals to the Earth and to people throughout history. This shared acknowledgment of the solstice fosters a sense of community and continuity across generations. As Utahns mark this seasonal transition, the winter solstice becomes not just an astronomical event, but a collective moment of connection and reflection for those who observe it.