Therefore, if you are looking at a weather report or climate data, December 1st is the official "New Year's Day" for winter. 3. Cultural and Seasonal Perception
The Winter Solstice marks the "shortest day" of the year, meaning the day with the fewest hours of sunlight. From an astronomical standpoint, December is the grand finale of fall. 2. The Meteorological Perspective: It’s All Winter is december fall or winter