Halcyon days, according to sea tradition, is the two-week period of calm weather before and after the shortest day of the year, about December 21. People often use the term to refer to a time of peace or prosperity. The phrase is taken from halcyon, the name the ancient Greeks gave to the kingfisher. According to folklore, the halcyon built its nest on the surface of the ocean, and was able to quiet the winds while its eggs were hatching.
