The winter solstice takes place in Tiwanaku Town, every June 21st, this date marks the Aymara New Year or Machaj Mara; it also marks the beginning of a new agriculture year.

The winter solstice indicates that the earth is in its farthest point from the sun.

The Amautas (Andean priests) celebrate a gratitude ceremonies to the Sun and the Pachamama (mother earth) for the crops received to feed their people this celebrations are perfectly integrated to the Bolivian culture and starts with the first sunlight sparks on June 21st , the light inspires the hope of a unity between the Universe and our hearts, that provides joy in life in the sacred journey.