The winter solstice is the day of the year when the Northern Hemisphere has the fewest hours of sunlight and the Southern Hemisphere has the most.   For indigenous peoples, it has been a time to honor their ancient sun deity.   They passed their knowledge down to successive generations through complex stories and ritual practices.

At the time of the winter solstice they hold a multiday celebration, known as the Shalako festival. 

The days for the celebration are selected by the religious leaders. The Zuni are intensely private, and most events are not for public viewing.

The winter solstice is the day of the year when the Northern Hemisphere has the fewest hours of sunlight and the Southern Hemisphere has the most

But what is shared with the public is near the end of the ceremony, when six Zuni men dress up and embody the spirit of giant bird deities. 

These men carry the Zuni prayers for rain 'to all the corners of the earth.' 

The Zuni deities are believed to provide 'blessings' and 'balance' for the coming seasons and agricultural year.

As religion scholar Tisa Wenger writes, 'The Zuni believe their ceremonies are necessary not just for the well-being of the tribe but for 'the entire world.'

Winter games. Read More