Ten Fun Facts about the Month of December
1. December Was Once the Tenth Month
In the ancient Roman calendar, December was the tenth month of the year. Its name comes from the Latin word "decem", meaning "ten". The months of January and February were later added, shifting it to the twelfth and final month of the year.
2. The Winter Solstice Marks the Shortest Day
The Winter Solstice, which usually falls on December 21st or 22nd, is the shortest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. This marks the moment when the Earth's tilt is farthest from the sun, resulting in the least amount of daylight.
3. Birthstone: Turquoise, Tanzanite, and Zircon
December is represented by three birthstones: turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon. Each gemstone is believed to bring good fortune, protection, and health to those born in the month.
4. The Zodiac Signs of December Are Sagittarius and Capricorn
People born between December 1st and December 21st fall under the sign of Sagittarius (a fire sign), known for adventurous, optimistic, and philosophical qualities. From December 22nd onwards, Capricorn takes over, symbolized by a disciplined, ambitious, and practical nature.
5. Christmas Celebrations Come from Pagan Roots
Many Christmas traditions, such as decorating a tree and exchanging gifts, have roots in ancient winter solstice celebrations like the Roman festival of Saturnalia and the Norse Yule celebrations. These were festivals of light and merrymaking during the darkest days of the year.
6. Hanukkah Can Fall on Different Dates
Hanukkah, the Jewish Festival of Lights, usually falls in December, but its exact dates vary because the holiday is based on the Hebrew lunar calendar. It typically begins on the 25th day of Kislev, which can occur anywhere from late November to late December.
7. December 5th is International Volunteer Day
International Volunteer Day is celebrated on December 5th each year to acknowledge the work of volunteers and the impact they have on communities worldwide. It was established by the United Nations in 1985.
8. December’s Birth Flowers: Narcissus and Poinsettia
The birth flowers of December are the narcissus (symbolizing respect and modesty) and the poinsettia (which represents good cheer and success). Poinsettias, in particular, are popular around Christmas due to their festive red and green leaves.
9. December Was Named After the Roman God of War
December derives its name from the Latin word *decem* (meaning "ten"), but it was later linked to the Roman god of war, Mars, during the Julian calendar period. This gave it a strong, martial association.
10. National Cocoa Day is on December 13th
National Cocoa Day, celebrated on December 13th, encourages the enjoyment of hot chocolate, a cozy drink traditionally associated with cold winter days. It’s the perfect way to warm up during the chilly month of December!
Sources:
1. Time and Date – December Fun Facts (https://www.timeanddate.com/calendar/december-facts.html)
2. National Geographic – December Facts (https://www.nationalgeographic.com/science/article/december)
3. History.com – December Holidays and Traditions (https://www.history.com/topics/holidays/december-holidays)
