TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - People in Melbourne have already pulled out their sweaters and puffer jackets as winter settles in. Along with the chilly temperatures, this time of year also brings one of the season's most notable astronomical events: the winter solstice.
Falling on June 21, the winter solstice marks the shortest day of the year, with the least amount of daylight. As Melbourne prepares for the seasonal event, it helps to know what to expect. Keep reading for everything you need to know.
When is the 2026 winter solstice in Melbourne?
In Melbourne, the 2026 winter solstice will fall on Sunday, June 21. The rest of Australia will also observe the astronomical event on the same day, according to TimeOut.
What is winter solstice?
Winter solstice is an astronomical event marking the shortest day and the longest night of the year. It happens every year on the same day throughout the Southern Hemisphere, including Australia, when the South Pole is at its furthest from the Sun. As a result, there are fewer daylight hours since the Sun travels along its shortest and lowest course across the sky.
What should one anticipate for the winter solstice in Melbourne?
The most noticeable change during the winter solstice is the limited daylight. Residents can expect darker mornings, earlier sunsets, and longer evenings compared to other times of the year. With that in mind, it can be the perfect opportunity to enjoy a night out at one of Melbourne's best bars or explore the city's nightlife.
Read: Winter Solstice 2025: Shortest Day in Australia Approaches
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