The 7 prime locations to experience the winter solstice in 2023

For centuries, cultures ranging from Scandinavia to Asia have celebrated the year’s longest night, marking it as a sign of lengthening days, the conclusion of harvests, and the potential stirring of malevolent spirits.

As the winter solstice graces the northern hemisphere at 03:27 am on Friday, December 22, 2023, people globally will illuminate the year’s darkest day. Here are the top spots to commemorate the winter solstice in 2023.

1. Stonehenge, England

Visiting the prehistoric marvels of Stonehenge during the winter or summer solstice is an unforgettable experience. New Age groups (neo-druids, neo-pagans, Wiccans) gather with tourists and revelers at this mystical site to celebrate the year’s shortest day.

The solstice days are the only occasions when entry is complimentary, allowing visitors to freely explore the magnificent structure. If you can’t attend in person, be sure to catch the live stream of the event on English Heritage’s YouTube channel.

2. St Lucia’s Day, Festival of Lights and Yule, Scandinavia

Scandinavia boasts a rich tradition of celebrating the winter solstice, blending pre-Christian and Christian customs. St Lucia’s Day is observed on December 13, marking the shortest day of the year according to the Julian calendar.

Prior to the advent of Christianity, the Norse honored the winter solstice by lighting massive fires to ward off evil spirits, a tradition that has shaped the modern Festival of Lights.

Now honoring St Lucia, the festival symbolizes light triumphing over darkness. It features processions adorned with thousands of candles, and the eldest daughter of each family wears a white gown and a crown of candles while serving coffee and baked goods to her family.

St Lucia’s Day heralds the Yule season, a time closely linked with Christmas celebrations. However, Yule (believed to derive from the Old Norse term jōl) originally stemmed from a pre-Christian feast honoring the sun's return and the god Odin, giving rise to many holiday traditions, including Yule logs, evergreens, cider, mulled wine, and gift-giving.

3. Winter solstice at Newgrange, Ireland

The enigmatic Newgrange in County Meath, Ireland, believed to have been constructed around 3200 BCE, attracts considerable interest during the winter months. This circular monument was designed so that its longest passage and central chamber are fully illuminated at sunrise on the winter solstice, suggesting it may have functioned as a site for religious or ceremonial activities.

Due to the limited space within the structure, a lottery system is in place for entry at dawn between December 18 and 23. Sixty individuals are chosen (and allowed to bring a guest), with 10 winners entering the site each morning to witness this solar event. If you're eager to experience the winter solstice with a prehistoric twist, apply for next year's lottery through the Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre. For those who aren't fortunate enough to secure a ticket, regular tours are available at other times.

4. The fires of Lohri, India

Marking the end of winter and the harvest season, Lohri is one of the most cherished festivals in northern India, especially in the states of Punjab and Haryana. Initially celebrated on the winter solstice, Lohri now occurs on January 13, just before Makar Sankranti, a Hindu festival dedicated to the sun god Surya. While the festival carries various meanings, it pays tribute to the fire and sun deities, and holds particular significance for families who have recently welcomed new members or celebrated marriages.

In the days leading up to the festival, communities gather firewood to prepare for the grand bonfires lit on Lohri night. Traditional snacks include popcorn, peanuts, and gajak (a sweet made of sesame seeds and jaggery), which are shared among participants and tossed into the flames as offerings.

5. Tōji traditions, Japan

As winter approaches in Japan, what’s the best way to unwind? Enjoy a soothing soak in a yuzu-infused bath, following the country’s tōji (winter solstice) custom. This aromatic bath, known as yuzu-yu, is believed to have warming properties that help prevent illness during the cold season, a practice that has been cherished for centuries.

Other winter solstice customs include enjoying winter squash, toji-gayu (rice porridge with adzuki beans), and foods featuring names with the ‘n’ sound, which are thought to bring good fortune. Dishes like ninjin (carrot), udon (noodles), and ginnan (ginkgo nut) are excellent choices.

6. Burning the Clocks, Brighton, UK

A modern twist on winter solstice light festivities, Burning the Clocks is a unique lantern parade organized by Brighton’s arts charity, Same Sky, on the evening of December 21. Running for 20 years, this event was created as a secular celebration of the season. Participants craft their own paper and willow lanterns and stroll through Brighton’s streets before casting their lanterns into a bonfire on the beach.

7. Winter Solstice Lantern Festival, Vancouver, Canada

On December 21, Vancouver will mark the 30th anniversary of this vibrant celebration, as thousands gather in Granville Island and Yaletown to illuminate the longest night. The Winter Solstice Lantern Festival includes lantern-making workshops, captivating fire performances, and live music, fostering a festive atmosphere that chases away winter gloom. Highlights also feature the Labyrinth of Light, an indoor art installation with 600 candles, alongside engaging storytelling sessions.