Sunrise over the Ramapo Mountains in Sloatsburg, NY.

The shortest day of the year is here and will be over before you know. Local photographer Geoff Welch caught the Winter Solstice sunrise coming up over the Ramapo Mountain on this warming December 21 Saturday.

Look for temperatures to veer toward the 60s this weekend.

The morning sky lights up with the sunrise on Winter Solstice morning. Sloatsburg, NY.

Winter Solstice has been celebrated from time immemorial, with observances coming in all shapes and sizes and traditions. Technically, the sun’s winter elevation in the sky is at its lowest on this day of the year, though Winter Solstice in the northern hemisphere is Summer Solstice in the southern region.

Harmony Hall with Liberty Rock Park in the background.

What does the day mean? Well, it was significantly celebrated as the last time of festival before heading into the dark days and teeth of winter, where starvation and privation was very real to many in those days of yore, when many harvest traditions took root. It’s also celebrated as the return of the sun and dawn of a new year. Celebrations. Observances. The coming longer days. Merry Saturnalia, gift giving, jingle bells, and song.

Enjoy the short weekend day of warm weather.

Photos courtesy of Geoff Welch.