Catch the Winter Solstice sunrise live from Newgrange this Sunday

This Sunday, 21st December 2025, people across Ireland and around the world will have the rare opportunity to witness one of the country’s most extraordinary natural and historical events — the Winter Solstice sunrise at Newgrange, streamed live to homes everywhere.

For a few magical minutes each year, the rising sun aligns perfectly with the 5,000-year-old Neolithic passage tomb in County Meath. Sunlight enters the tomb’s narrow entrance, known as the roof-box, and illuminates the inner chamber — a stunning display of ancient engineering, astronomy, and cultural significance.

The event, which marks the shortest day and longest night of the year, has fascinated historians, archaeologists, and astronomers alike. According to Dr Clare Tuffy, an expert on Neolithic monuments, “The alignment at Newgrange shows just how advanced our ancestors were. They understood the movement of the sun and designed the tomb to capture this brief but spectacular moment every year.”

Because public access to the tomb is highly restricted, with only a limited number of lottery winners allowed inside on solstice morning, the livestream provides the perfect way to experience this event safely from home. The broadcast will feature live commentary from experts, explaining the significance of the solstice and the ancient structures that have stood for millennia.

When and where to watch:

📅 Date: Sunday, 21 December 2025

🕗 Time: 8.40 a.m. (approx.)

📺 Streaming platforms:

RTÉ Player

OPW Heritage Ireland

OPW’s official YouTube channel

gov.ie

Dr Frank Prendergast, another archaeologist involved in the event, notes, “Even if you can’t be at Newgrange, watching the livestream gives you a real sense of connection to our history and the rhythms of nature.”

The Winter Solstice at Newgrange is more than just a visual spectacle; it is a reminder of the human fascination with the cosmos and our enduring desire to understand the world around us. Whether you’re an astronomy enthusiast, a history buff, or simply curious about ancient Ireland, this livestream offers a unique chance to experience one of the oldest and most awe-inspiring seasonal events in the world.

Set your alarms, grab a warm drink, and don’t miss this chance to watch the Winter Solstice sunrise illuminate Newgrange, connecting past and present in a single, fleeting moment of light.