Watch the Live Broadcast of the Summer Solstice at Stonehenge
Watching the sun rise at Stonehenge on the summer solstice is one of those things that a lot of people probably want to do, but few get to experience it. This year it is definitely true even if you live in England because there will be no face-to-face meetings. And while nothing can replace the IRL, this year more people will be able to watch the sunset and sunrise together during the summer solstice this year thanks to a live broadcast from the British historical non-profit organization English Heritage . Here’s how to tune in.
How to watch the sunset and sunrise during the summer solstice
Both the Midsummer Sunset and the Stonehenge Sunrise will be streamed live on English Heritage social media channels . The tricky part here (if you really want to watch live) is knowing the time difference. Sunset will take place on Saturday, June 20 at 9:26 pm BST, which is 4:26 pm EST. The main event will take place the next day (sort of), Sunday, June 21 at 4:52 am ET, which is Saturday at 11:52 pm ET.
So, technically in the United States, both sunset and sunrise occur today, Saturday, June 20th. If you’d like to watch it live, you can RSVP reply to the Facebook event to be notified when it starts. The good news is, thanks to the time difference, you won’t have to get up too early to catch the sunrise. And, unlike when you were driving in person, you don’t have to work through crowds or get up even earlier to overcome traffic jams on the solstice. In fact, you can watch it from your bed if you like.
Actually, it raises another point: since this year there will be no people watching the sunrise or sunset at Stonehenge itself, there will be stunning, unobstructed views live on air. According to the English Heritage event page : “Our cameras will capture the best views of Stonehenge, allowing you to connect to this spiritual place from the comfort of your own home.”
In a statement , Stonehenge Director Nikolai Tasker said : “We hope our [live stream] offers an alternative opportunity for those close and distant to connect with this spiritual place at such a special time of the year, and we look forward to welcoming everyone again next year. … … “
And if you can’t watch the live stream, the videos will be available on the English Heritage Facebook page for you to watch later.