Essential Information
| Type | Events and festivals |
|---|---|
| Location | |
| Date and Times | Saturday 21 December 2024 | 12-6pm |
| Prices | Free |
Make the most of the shortest day of the year and head to the Winter Solstice Festival at Greenwich Park, a midwinter celebration filled with attractions and activities.
Folk meets science in Greenwich Park this December, with live performances, craft markets hosted by The Royal Parks, plus live science demos led by Royal Observatory Greenwich astronomers.
Our astronomers will be out and about, answering all your astronomy questions and explaining what makes the winter solstice such an important day in the astronomy calendar.
You'll get a sense of space with our live science demos, and perhaps even see the sights in the sky with our modern telescopes! Find our astronomers next to the General Wolfe statue, just outside the Royal Observatory.
Once you've explored the skies above, visit the craft and food market and get into the festive spirit with a host of live performances with Arts Trust Productions.
Find more details below, and get ready to join us on Saturday 21 December.
Festival highlights
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Live performances by Spark!
Experience a truly spectacular performance by Spark!, an internationally renowned street theatre company.
Spark! is a visually stunning, high-impact drumming, movement and light spectacular, combining live music, dynamic choreography and dramatic lighting design. The Spark! characters will lead you on an otherworldly adventure, creating a sense of magic, mystery and mischief.
Timings and locations:
- 2pm: Starts at St Mary’s Gate
- 4pm: Starts at General Wolfe Statue viewpoint
- 5:30pm: Starts at General Wolfe Statue viewpoint
Suitable for all ages
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Look through a telescope
Take a look through the modern telescopes of Royal Observatory Greenwich and Flamsteed Astronomy Society as we scan the skies.
With luck, we'll observe Venus and the Sun during the day and perhaps even get a peek at the planet Jupiter after sunset. Even if the weather isn't being kind, you'll still be able to speak with our astronomers and see the London skyline like you've never seen it before!
Times: 12pm - 6pm | Location: General Wolfe Statue viewpoint | Suitable for all ages
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Shop for treats in the craft and food market
Explore a vibrant food and craft market featuring local artisans and creators. From handmade gifts to seasonal treats, discover unique treasures perfect for the holiday season. Support local businesses and find something special while enjoying the festive atmosphere of the park.
Times: 12pm - 6pm | Location: Around the General Wolfe Statue
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Discover the archaeology of Greenwich Park
Meet members of The Royal Parks team to learn more about the history and nature of the park through a series of activities - and take a tour with Greenwich Park’s Community Archaeologist to discover more about the history hidden beneath our feet.
Tour timings:
- 12.30pm: Archaeology walk to the Saxon Barrow cemetery
- 2.30pm: Archaeology walk to the Roman Temple site
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Take part in live science demos
Join our Observatory Explainers for a series of hands-on science demonstrations throughout the afternoon. From seeing the invisible with thermal imaging cameras to revealing the smells and sounds of space, this drop-in session is accessible for all ages. You’ll also have the chance to ask everything you’ve ever wanted to ask about astronomy: our team are always ready to chat about our expansive universe.
Times: 12pm - 3:30pm | Location: General Wolfe Statue viewpoint | Suitable for all ages
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to book?
The Winter Solstice Festival is free and all event are drop-in: there is no need to book in advance.
If you want to visit the Royal Observatory at the same time, you can book tickets separately here. Our regular schedule of live planetarium shows will also be running on the day.
What time does Greenwich Park open and close?
The Park will open as usual at 6am for pedestrians and from 7am for car parking.
With stargazing and festivities due to carry on into the evening, Greenwich Park will close at 7pm on Saturday 21 December, an hour later than usual. We advise visitors to start exiting the Park from 6.00pm.
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