Winter solstice at Tara

On 22 December 2024, we travelled through the driving rain to reach the Hill of Tara at 8.30 a.m., just in time for the winter solstice sunrise at 8.38. Winter solstice (grianstad an Gheimhridh) has been observed since Neolithic times in Ireland. Many people gather at ancient ceremonial sites to mark the shortest day of the year. Though Newgrange is far more popular for solstice celebrations nowadays, the Hill of Tara is the most sacred site in ancient Ireland and the seat of the high kings. 

It was not the most impressive sunrise, as the wind was high and it had just stopped raining, but the sun did appear after a while. 

Just as a side note, Fidelma's in Dunshaughlin serves the best value breakfast in Co. Meath.

See article about the importance of the winter solstice festival in Irish culture and heritage by Caroline Guerin McGrath.