While the snowflakes, holiday lights and cold temps suggest otherwise, the season does not begin until the winter solstice on Saturday, Dec. 21.

The winter solstice is the precise moment when the sun appears farthest south in the sky. This year's solstice is at 3:21 a.m. Central in the Northern Hemisphere, according to the U.S. Naval Observatory.

The solstice marks the shortest day of the year, with the fewest hours of possible sunlight and the most hours of darkness. After the solstice, days will begin to grow longer.

With days set to lengthen, the winter solstice is seen as a time of renewal in cultures around the world.

In Minnesota, there are several winter festivals and wellness-related events to commemorate the season.

"Since pagan days, solstice has traditionally meant the 'year as reborn,' with ancient and modern Scandinavians fusing it into the longer 'Jul' or Yule season," according to the American Swedish Institute, which holds a popular event each winter solstice.

Here are a handful of solstice events happening around the Twin Cities:

The Bell Museum: Celebrate the sun's "rebirth" and observe the sun through telescopes outside the museum from noon to 2 p.m. Dec. 21. Other winter programming, including a Signs of the Season exhibit and winter walk, is ongoing.

The American Swedish Institute: A bonfire, live reindeer, dance performances, mulled wine and more from 5 to 9 p.m. Dec. 20. The event is sold out, but call 612-871-4907 to be added to a waitlist.

Minneapolis parks: Celebrate winter solstice with crafts, activities, stories, refreshments and more at four different Minneapolis parks. Find dates and times here.

The Walker: Rejuvenate for the new year and longer days by immersing yourself in the soothing vibrations of crystal bowls, gongs and chimes. The sound baths will take place at 5:30 and 7 pm. Dec. 19 and Jan. 2, free Thursday nights at the museum.

Urban Growler Brewing Co.: An enchanted beer garden with bonfires, hot chocolate, beer poking and more. Dec. 21, 2 p.m. to 9 p.m., at the St. Paul brewery.

The Cedar Cultural Center: Sound bath during a ritual celebration and healing gathering from the longest night toward the light. Dec. 22, doors at 1:30 p.m., show 2:00 p.m. $23 advance/$28 day of show.