December
Database of events, awareness days, holidays, and promotions occurring in December of this year.
ABOUT DECEMBER 2024December, the twelfth and final month of the Gregorian calendar (established in 1582 with Pope Gregory XIII), derives its name from "decem," the Latin word for "ten," as it was originally the tenth month in the ancient Roman calendar. The calendar reforms of Julius Caesar established January as the start of the year in 44 BC, but December retained its name, serving as a historical reminder of its original position.
The month encapsulates a time of ending and beginning as people worldwide mark the close of one year and anticipation of the next.
December sees the winter solstice, the shortest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere and the longest in the Southern Hemisphere. It begins in winter or summer, depending on where you are.
ASTROLOGYDecember 1-21 fall under the fire sign Sagittarius. December 22-31 are under the earth sign of Capricorn.
BIRTHSTONESThe birthstones of December are turquoise, zircon, and tanzanite. Turquoise, one of the oldest gemstones known, is prized for its distinct blue-green color and symbolizes good fortune and success. It has been revered in various cultures, from the ancient Egyptians to the Native Americans, as a holy stone and a bringer of good luck. Zircon, available in multiple colors but most famously in a bright blue, is believed to promote wisdom and prosperity. Tanzanite, a relatively recent discovery found only in Tanzania, is valued for its unique violet-blue color and is thought to inspire compassion and calmness.
FLOWERSThe flower associated with December is the narcissus, specifically the paper white variety. This winter-blooming flower symbolizes rebirth and new beginnings, fitting for the month that concludes the old year and heralds the new. In some traditions, the narcissus equals good fortune and wealth.
LEGENDSFolk legends and customs in December are rich and varied, reflecting the cultural diversity of this globally celebrated month. One of the most widely recognized is the celebration of Christmas on December 25th, commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ in Christian tradition. The holiday includes multiple customs, including gift-giving, festive meals, and the decoration of Christmas trees, a tradition believed to have originated in Germany in the 16th century.
The Winter Solstice, occurring around December 21st, is favored by multiple cultures with festivals and rituals that honor the return of the sun and the gradual increase of daylight.
LOOKING FOR EVENTS IN A PREVIOUS OR UPCOMING YEAR?Due to the dynamic nature of events, the full database for next year will be uploaded in September. To search for a previous year’s events or next year’s events after September, log in to your LEEP membership and use the Advanced Search console.
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