Stonehenge's Summer Solstice celebrations CANCELLED
The event will still be live streamed
Last updated 16th Jun 2021
English Heritage have confirmed that the Summer Solstice celebrations at Stonehenge will not be going ahead as planned on Sunday (20th June).
This is due to the change in the Government's 'roadmap' which has seen the lifting of lockdown restrictions being delayed by four weeks until July 19th.
Plans were "well underway" for this weekend's event, with people being able to attend in groups of up to 30.
However, the delay now means only the Pagan & Druid Community will be able to make mark the solstice in small, pre-booked groups.
Nichola Tasker, English Heritage's Director for Stonehenge said:
"We share people's disappointment with this decision, we were busy getting ready to welcome everyone for Summer Solstice but the announcement this week left us with no choice.
"We're working with the pagan and druid community to ensure that small groups can still mark in person what is a very important moment for them and we will be live-streaming the Summer Solstice for free so that wherever you are, you can still enjoy the sight of the solstice sun over the ancient stones."
English Heritage say they came to the decision after discussions with Wiltshire Council's Public Health team and Wiltshire Police.
Kate Blackburn, Director of Public Health at Wiltshire Council, said:
"We know this will be disappointing for those who wanted to visit Stonehenge. However, it is important we recognise restrictions are still in place for a reason and we all need to play our part to stay safe. I would encourage people to view the Summer Solstice online and I want to thank people in advance for their understanding and co-operation in ensuring Wiltshire plays its part."
HOW TO VIRTUALLY WATCH
Both the Summer and Winter Solstice's were cancelled last year, but to ensure people didn't fully miss out, the event was live streamed on their social media channels.
5.2 million people enjoyed the occasion last year, and they will be able to do the same this year.
You will be able to get involved by going to the English Heritage website.