The Midpoint Of Winter: When And What Is It?

When Is The Midpoint Of Winter?

Many people think the midpoint of winter is always Groundhog Day, but it varies. If you check the latest edition of the Farmers’ Almanac, you’ll see that it’s Friday, February 3, 2023—the exact halfway point between the Winter Solstice and the Spring Equinox.

Winter is the shortest of the four seasons, lasting 88.99 days. It is shortest because at this time of year, Earth is at its closest point in its orbit to the Sun (known as perihelion). So when an object is closest to the Sun, it moves fastest in its orbit; gravity insists upon that. That is fundamental natural law.

Conversely, we are farthest from the Sun in early July, so we are moving slowest in our orbit. Which is why summer is the longest season, lasting just over 93 days.

Top 10 Reasons To Wish Winter Away

1. The birds and squirrels have had a big appetite this season and birdseed supply is getting low.
2. Your muscles ache and you’re covered in bruises from all those “headers” on the ice.
3. You can’t even recognize your own car in the parking lot from all the road salt and dirt covering it.
4. You have sweaty feet from wearing boots all the time. 
5. The days are getting longer!
6. Cold and flu season. Enough said.
7. Green (grass) is a much happier color.
8. The ability (and desire) to go outside without 27 layers of clothing.
9. The smell of spring flowers, the sound of birds, and the return of leaves.
10. Fishing, and gardening.