Stonehenge, December 21: Today, on Friday, marks the winter solstice the official start of winter in the northern hemisphere- the shortest period of daylight and the longest night of the year. This phenomenon happens once every year hence it makes this day so special. To mark this historic event, Newgrange in Ireland will live stream winter solstice to the world. After Sunset, a full moon will appear in the sky right before a peak display of the Ursid meteor shower. The word "solstice" is derived from a Latin word which means "Sun stands still." When is Summer Solstice 2018? What is It? Why is it the Longest Day & Is It the Hottest Day of the Year?

The Irish Tourism and the Office of Public Works (ITOPW) had ensured that people from Ireland and around the world could experience the astonishing magic of the winter solstice at the Newgrange through its live stream from the prehistoric monument. Newgrange is one of the best sites to witness the solstice as people can see sunrise lighting up the ancient passage tomb. Winter Solstice 2018: Google Doodle Marks Shortest Day of the Year in Northern Hemisphere.

Watch Live Streaming from Newgrange:

In India, winter solstice, also known as the hibernal solstice, will take place at 3:53 am on December 22 IST. According to the Universal Coordinated Time (UCT), Winter Solstice will be on Friday, 21 December 2018, 22:23.

Stonehenge, England, is also a popular site to witness the beautiful natural phenomenon, people from around the world come together and capture the movement when the sun directly aligns with the famous stones. In China, Winter Solstice is known as Dongzhi Festival, where, locals celebrate it by consuming rice balls, which symbolises reunion.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Dec 21, 2018 01:46 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).