1. Winter Solstice - December 21 is known as the winter solstice. It is the shortest day of the year in terms of daylight hours and the longest night of the year. It marks the beginning of winter and the return of the sun.

2. Statehood Day - December 21 is also known as Statehood Day in Oregon. In 1850, President Millard Fillmore signed the bill that made Oregon the 33rd state in the United States.

3. Lewis and Clark Expedition - On December 21, 1805, the Lewis and Clark expedition set up camp near present-day Astoria, Oregon. They spent the winter there before continuing their journey westward in the spring.

4. Oregon Trail - The first wagon train rolled into Oregon on December 21, 1844. The group of 70 pioneers was led by John C. Frémont and made the journey from Missouri to Oregon in just 111 days.

5. Festivals and Celebrations - December 21 in Oregon is also a day for festivals and celebrations. Portland holds its annual Winter Solstice Festival, featuring music, dance, and other performances. In Eugene, the Community Center for the Performing Arts holds a Winter Solstice Celebration with music, storytelling, and rituals.