On which day of the year does the longest shadow occur?

The longest shadow of the year occurs on the winter solstice. This event takes place around December 21st in the Northern Hemisphere and is characterized by the sun reaching its lowest point in the sky at noon. Because the sun is positioned so low, objects cast a longer shadow compared to any other time of the year.

During the summer solstice, which occurs around June 21st, the sun is at its highest point, resulting in shorter shadows. Equinoxes, occurring in March and September, have nearly equal day and night lengths, producing shadows that are intermediate in length. The first day of spring does not specifically correlate to the longest shadows, as shadows are more dependent on the sun's position, which varies seasonally.