LAST UPDATE | 21 Dec 2025

PEOPLE FROM THE US and Germany were among the lucky 14 who were able to witness this year’s Winter Solstice from within the ancient chamber at Newgrange.

The Winter Solstice marks the shortest day and longest night of the year in the Northern Hemisphere.

Physical access to the small chamber in the prehistoric monument is limited on the day of the winter solstice, with just 14 people being afforded this opportunity – two guides and six winners of the free solstice lottery and their companions.

The lucky few hailed from counties Down, Dublin, Limerick and further afield too, with others coming from Germany, United Kingdom and USA.

This morning, the sky was bright with some cloud cover, and viewers got to experience the phenomenon of sunlight entering the monument through the roof box and along the passage to illuminate the interior of the monument.

Outside the monument, the usual joyful atmosphere of the Solstice could be felt, as hundreds gathered to celebrate the prospect of brighter days to come.

The clouds have moved but unfortunately a bit late for the sunlight to enter the chamber.
Still a great morning☀️

Happy Solstice everyone
📷Ailbhe pic.twitter.com/zTIAHyzhxi

— Brú na Bóinne - Newgrange and Knowth (@brunaboinneOPW) December 21, 2025

People were also able witness the sunlight illuminating it from the comfort of home via a livestream. 

In cooperation with the Office of Public Works (OPW) and the National Monuments Service, RTÉ broadcast live from inside the passage tomb from 8:40am. 

The broadcast featured narration from Dr Clare Tuffy, who has worked at the site for over 30 years, and Dr Frank Prendergast, who has written a book about the solstice and Newgrange.

Minister of State with Responsibility for the OPW, Kevin “Boxer” Moran said he was delighted to welcome the Winter Solstice lottery winners and all those tuning in via the livestream.

“It is a time of reflection and renewal,” said Moran, “marking a significant and special occasion as we bid farewell to the long dark evenings and welcome a bright beginning for the year ahead.”

You can find information about visiting Newgrange for the winter solstice here.

-With additional reporting from Diarmuid Pepper