When Does the Winter Solstice Start? How to Celebrate Witchmas

Find out how your zodiac sign can commemorate the season.
A full moon rises on December 4 2025 in Glastonbury England. Tonight's full moon is the last of a trio of supermoons so...
A full moon rises on December 4, 2025 in Glastonbury, England. Tonight's full moon is the last of a trio of supermoons, so called because it is when the moons is closest to the Earth and is also known as the Cold Moon, marking the start of winter as it occurs nearest the winter solstice.Matt Cardy/Getty Images

‘Tis the season, witchmas is upon us! Witchmas is a celebration of Yule and the Winter Solstice, which occurs on December 21 in the Northern Hemisphere this year, and it’s a significant turning point in the universe.

Many people celebrate Witchmas throughout the entire month of December, while others begin their festivities on the day of the solstice and continue into the first days of January. Not only does the Sun enter Capricorn, marking a period of reflection and work, but it also gives us a chance to honor the season of winter. The Winter Solstice marks the onset of a new season and the shortest day of the year. We give TLC to nature and await the Sun’s return in the warmer months. Spending time with those we care about, exchanging gifts, and being nostalgic is an important part of Witchmas and the Winter Solstice, to discuss the good old days and look to the future.

Read below to find out how your zodiac sign can observe and commemorate the holiday.

Aries

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Inspiration strikes, inciting you to redecorate. This doesn't mean you're going to paint the walls a new color, but spruce up the vibe by adding colorful decor that speaks to your intentions. For instance, if you want to manifest romance, incorporate pink; if you're looking to bring in luck, incorporate purple.

Taurus

Taurus in a bikini relaxing on stars
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Protect your energy by lighting a Yule log (it doesn't have to be real wood), because the intention is to ward off evil entities that come out during the solstice. Cleansing the energy will make you feel fresh and ready to go! PSA: Practice fire safety.

Gemini

Two geminis looking at each other on a constellation of stars
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Release your old ways of thinking and emotions that are holding you back by writing a letter and mailing it to a non-existent address with no return information. The point is to get rid of sentiments that have been weighing you down and relinquish them from your life forever.

Cancer

A cancer thumbing through books on stars
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Welcome to the light and dark sides of the Earth, as you watch the sunrise and sunset with loved ones. Grab a cup of tea with flavors like cranberries or cloves, and take in the beauty that Mother Nature provides. You’ll feel in alignment with the universe as a result.

Leo

Leo singing
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The solstice urges you to reset your schedule. You may want to give yourself an extra hour or two of sleep every night, so start off on the right foot and make sure you're hitting the hay at a reasonable hour. This might even encourage you to get up early.

Virgo

Virgo texting love notes on a constellation of stars
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Journal your thoughts and lessons from the past twelve months. You'll be able to understand your motives and aspirations clearly, giving you the incentive to move forward and mend your heart. You do not have to share your personal pages, but you might want to discuss your goals with others.

Libra

Libra jump roping with stars
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Celebrate your roots by making a scrapbook that tells the story of your ancestors. This project could lead you to building a family tree with the assistance of siblings, parents, relatives, and other family members. In the process, you'll learn about your heritage, connecting you more deeply to your lineage.

Scorpio

Scorpio resting on stars
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You’re yearning to be active in the community, leading you to take on a role in a humanitarian cause. Being able to assist others and give back is crucial to your personal growth and development. It'll speak to your spirit, since you can pay it forward to those around you.

Sagittarius

Sagittarius climbing up a constellation
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The arrival of winter makes you feel more confident and able to stand taller. Allow yourself to speak up when needed now. The days of biting your tongue and holding back are over, which will be refreshing and allow people to see how strong you are. You got this, Sag!

Capricorn

capricorn resting on stars
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Treat yourself to a facial or a mani-pedi to remind yourself how magical you are. A dash of self-care will give you the strength and motivation to implement these activities into your life throughout winter. This will help you to unwind and stress less, which is always a plus.

Aquarius

Aquarius lounging on a constellation
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If you've been on the fence about seeing a therapist to discuss what you're going through, now is a good time to set up a meeting or begin the process of healing in another way. Having the extra support in the upcoming months will be beneficial, allowing you to open up to share your fears, secrets, and aspirations.

Pisces

Pisces hurdling a constellation
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A creative endeavor like crafting your own personal vision board or cute talisman for the upcoming year is ideal, as it allows you to lay out all your aspirations and hopes on a piece of paper, complete with horoscopes and all the things you want to invest your energy in.