Summer Solstice at Stonehenge
To some it marks the start of summer.
Thousand of people choose to visit the neolithic monument of Stonehenge to celebrate. Free managed access to the stones is allowed from the evening through to a few hours after sunrise. It attracts an eclectic mix of young and old, pagans, hippies, and those just curious or wanting to enjoy the event.
If you stand in the right place on the summer solstice, you will see the sun rise directly above the Heel Stone, which stands just outside the circle to the north-east.
Sunrise occurs before 5am but there’s no guarantee of being able to see the perfect sunrise. That never seems to deter anyone’s spirits. The drumming and horn blowing around the ancient monument has many dancing and the sound of skylarks fills the air.
The ceremonies performed at the stones are mainly associated with the Druids with several different groups in attendance.
The solstice is extra special for couples looking to have a handfasting ceremony. It binds them together as they pledge to commit for a year and a day, eternity and beyond or as long as their love will last. Their ceremony finishes with the couple jumping over a staff, showing a leap of faith.
The words of the druids during the rituals are a sentiment echoed by many:
“May there be Peace in the East! May there be Peace in the South! May there be Peace in the West! May there be Peace in the North!May there be Peace throughout the whole world.”
For everyone’s safety and wellbeing, English Heritage have cancelled this year’s summer solstice celebrations at Stonehenge.
Please don’t travel to Stonehenge for Summer Solstice: The event will be live streamed on social media channels for free.
https://www.facebook.com/StonehengeEH
The solstice car park will open from 7pm on Thursday 20 June, with last admission at 6am on Friday 21 June – or earlier if full. The car park must be vacated by 12 noon on 21 June. Sunrise is at 4.52am on 21 June, the longest day of the year.
Car park charges apply but buses run to the event from Salisbury railway station.
Alcohol is not permitted and bags will be security checked.
Please don’t climb on the stones.
Related:
Changes to Summer Solstice Arrangements at Stonehenge – 2016
