Winter Solstice at Newgrange

The Winter Solstice is one of the most remarkable natural events of the year, and there is no place more closely associated with it than Newgrange in County Meath.

Each December, visitors from across the world gather to witness the moment when the rising sun illuminates the inner chamber of this ancient monument. Below is everything you need to know about the Winter Solstice 2025 at Newgrange.

The Winter Solstice is an astronomical phenomenon which marks the shortest day and the longest night of the year. In the Northern Hemisphere, the Winter Solstice occurs on 21 or 22 December, when the sun shines directly over the tropic of Capricorn. At sunrise on the shortest day of Newgrange is the best known of the 3 great passage tombs in the Brú na Bóinne complex.
The passage and chamber are aligned in a south-easterly direction, facing the rising sun at the winter solstice for several days around December 21st. A small window-like opening above the doorway known as the roof box allows the light from the midwinter rising sun to penetrate the chamber and dramatically illuminate it. This event can last for up to 17 minutes depending on weather conditions.

Earlier opening on winter-solstice mornings (19 – 23 December) with regular tour options suspended.

Due to limited capacity, the OPW strongly advises the public to enjoy the event through the livestream available on the day. However, those intending to travel to Newgrange should be aware of the following essential information.

Access and Parking

Access to the chamber at sunrise is strictly limited to Solstice Lottery winners register your interest solsticelottery.ie (Lottery places are strictly non-transferable. Spots in the chamber cannot be passed on to others. On average, around 30,000 people apply each year for the chance to be inside Newgrange at dawn) or check OPW website here

All access is via the Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre (A92 EH5C).
Free access to the Visitor Centre for Solstice visitors is available until 08:30 each morning from 19–23 December.
Limited free parking is available at the Visitor Centre. Follow the directions of parking attendants.
Carpooling is strongly recommended. There is no car park at Newgrange National Monument.
This is an outdoor event. Wear warm, waterproof clothing and suitable footwear.
Please do not travel to Brú na Bóinne unless you have purchased a ticket online.
Road closures will be in place in the area on 20 and 21 December. Check Meath County Council for maps and details.
No animals allowed, except registered assistance dogs with appropriate documentation.
This is an outdoor event. Wear warm, waterproof clothing and suitable footwear.
Road closures will be in place in the area on 20 and 21 December. Check Meath County Council for maps and details.
No animals allowed, except registered assistance dogs with appropriate documentation.
Free access to the Visitor Centre for Solstice visitors is available until 08:30 each morning from 19–23 December.