The Coolest Day: Winter Solstice
The winter solstice happens every year on December 21. It is the day with the shortest daylight and the longest night. The word solstice comes from Latin words 'sol' meaning sun and 'sistere' meaning to stand still. Different cultures celebrate the winter solstice in unique ways. For instance, in China, they have a special festival called Dongzhi Festival. People get together with their families and eat yummy food! Despite the cold, the winter solstice is a day of celebration and happiness. Even though it may be the shortest day of the year, it signifies that from here on out, days will start getting longer again.
Question 1
What does the word 'solstice' mean?
Sun and sail
Sun and stand still
Explanation. The word 'solstice' comes from Latin words 'sol' meaning sun and 'sistere' meaning to stand still.
Sun and move
Sun and hide
Sun and rise
Question 2
Which festival is celebrated in China during the winter solstice?
Mooncake Festival
Dragon Boat Festival
Lantern Festival
Dongzhi Festival
Explanation. In China, a special festival called Dongzhi Festival is celebrated during the winter solstice.
Qixi Festival
Question 3
When does the winter solstice happen every year?
January 1
December 25
July 4
October 31
December 21
Explanation. The winter solstice happens every year on December 21.
Question 4
What happens after the winter solstice?
Days get shorter
Days get longer
Explanation. After the winter solstice, days start getting longer again.
There is no more daylight
The year ends
Winter begins
Question 5
What is the significance of the winter solstice?
It is the coldest day of the year
It is the longest day of the year
It is the day with the shortest daylight and the longest night
Explanation. The winter solstice is the day with the shortest daylight and the longest night.
It is the first day of winter
It is the last day of winter
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