Celebrations for Winter Solstice Held at Ancient Sites

Thousands gathered at Stonehenge to observe the winter solstice sunrise, with participants emphasizing themes of “renewal, rebirth and good vibes.” The historic monument’s Monument Field became accessible at 07:45 GMT, allowing attendees to witness the sun ascend above the renowned stones. Despite a blustery morning in Wiltshire, individuals were drawn by the “spiritual draw of the area” to commemorate the winter solstice, recognized as the year’s shortest day. From this point forward, the duration of night will gradually diminish, and daylight hours will progressively extend. The sun appeared at Stonehenge around 08:09, met with cheers and applause. It was scheduled to set at 16:02, resulting in just under eight hours of daylight. Chris Smith, a 31-year-old civil servant, visited Stonehenge for the first time. He stated, “This is all about renewal, rebirth, we’re entering into the new year, and it’s also a good time to acknowledge what’s taking place in the year that’s been.” Smith elaborated on his personal experience, saying, “For me, I’ve gone through a bit of a tumultuous year, there’s been lots that has taken place for me in the past 24 months, and this is an opportunity to consolidate everything that has taken place this year and bury that in the past and be able to move forward then into this next new year.” He also commented on the atmosphere: “There’s such a vibe. I mean, if you look around, you’ve got everybody here, there’s such an energy in the space.” He added, “You can really feel it, like it’s all good vibes. People are just here enjoying themselves, and that’s kind of one of the draws of these sorts of events.” Smith concluded, “We have got people here from all walks of life. This is the community. And I think in today’s age, this is a really important thing to do.” The stones, believed to have been erected approximately 2,500 BC, are aligned with the sun’s trajectory during both solstices, signifying the transition of seasons. While public access for large crowds is typically restricted, English Heritage permits entry to the site for the summer and winter solstices. Steve Bax, English Heritage’s Stonehenge director, remarked: “It was fantastic to welcome around 4,500 people to Stonehenge this morning to celebrate winter solstice, and we were delighted that more than 100,000 people also watched live online from around the world.” He continued, “It was an enjoyable and peaceful celebration despite the sun not making an appearance and it was great to see so many families enjoying themselves around the monument.” At Avebury, a nearby location featuring another ancient stone circle, two individuals in cloaks were observed sounding horns as attendees gathered to witness the sunrise over the fields. Adjacent to the stone circle stands a cluster of beech trees, where people attach ribbons. This practice is a pagan custom known as “wishing trees,” performed as prayers to tree spirits or in remembrance of departed loved ones. In Somerset, Glastonbury Tor also attracted numerous individuals who ascended the hill earlier in the morning to observe the sun’s ascent. The Tor incorporates remnants of the 15th Century St Michael’s Church and rises 518ft (158m) above the Somerset Levels, offering expansive views of Wells, the Bristol Channel, Wiltshire, the Polden Hills, and Exmoor. Some consider it a spiritual landmark, akin to Stonehenge. At the summit of the hill, a fire was lit, and songs were performed by those assembled.