Winter Solstice Celebrations Illuminate Stonehenge and Global Traditions

The shortest day of the year draws thousands to ancient sites like Stonehenge, marking renewal and the return of longer days.

The winter solstice, marking the shortest day and longest night of the year, occurred on December 21, 2024, at 4:21 a.m. ET in the Northern Hemisphere.
Stonehenge welcomed over 15,000 visitors to witness its ancient alignment with the solstice sunrise, despite overcast skies obscuring the sun.
The event symbolizes renewal and rebirth, with participants celebrating through drumming, chanting, and reflection on the year past.
Other notable solstice observances included the illumination of Ireland's Newgrange passage tomb and global traditions like Japan's yuzu baths and Peru's mock sacrifices.
Research suggests Stonehenge may have served as a unifying monument for ancient Britons, with stones sourced from distant regions like Scotland and Wales.