Conditions above the Arctic Circle change drastically when the polar night, known as mørketid in Norwegian, arrives. The sun remains below the horizon for a period each winter, meaning that the nights become longer and magical lights appear.
The Polar Night
Vibrant hues light up the dark
Slowly but surely, as winter approaches, the days become shorter and a well-known natural phenomenon sweeps over Northern Norway.
The sun bids a temporary farewell, making way for dreamy pink skies and nights that are often lit by a famous green wonder.
The polar night is nothing new for Northern Norwegians and life goes on as usual, but it can be a bit confusing for people who have never witnessed such unique winter nights. You may lose track of time and feel a bit tired, but the darkness isn't all bad, as it actually brings its own kind of light.
Is it dark all the time?
On clear days, you may have some daylight around midday, which gives you plenty of time for fun activities like dogsledding. If you're lucky, the sky can also be filled with pretty pastel pinks or vibrant reds and oranges.
Have you ever heard of Blåtimen? It's also known as 'the blue hour' and only occurs during the polar night period. In the afternoon, light reflects off the sea and snow, draping everything in a magical cobalt-blue hue.
The further north you go, the darker it becomes and the longer the phenomenon lasts.
Not to mention the most extraordinary light show of them all! The northern lights are truly special, and watching them dance across the night sky is a mesmerising experience.
When is the polar night?
Svalbard: From the end of October to the beginning of February (with complete darkness from mid-November to the end of January).
Kirkenes: From the end of November to the end of January.
The North Cape: From the end of November to the end of January.
Alta: From the end of November to the middle of January.
Tromsø: From the end of November to the middle of January.
Lofoten and Vesterålen: From the start of December to the start of January.
Bodø: Technically, there isn't a true polar night here, but the mountains to the south block the sun during the second half of December.
Source: Nordnorge.com
On the Norwegian mainland, the dark period usually begins around November, whereas the Svalbard archipelago in the Arctic receives its yearly visit as early as October, and by November it's completely pitch black there until the end of January.
Sun rays can also reach up from below the horizon on clear days, resulting in a spectacular light show of pinks, purples, oranges and reds. Have your camera ready, you don't want to miss this!
Make the most of the magical yet brief daylight with exciting activities such as whale watching or eagle safaris!
Cold polar nights are perfect for starry skies. Many have forgotten how beautiful the night sky can be, as light pollution affects more than half of Europe. Being able to see magical skies like this is a breathtaking experience. Just look up!
Come and see the northern lights
Learn more about the phenomenon and make the most of your trip.
The polar night often leads to people spend more time indoors and make their homes feel extra cosy. There is a word in Norwegian, kos, which embodies all the small joys that make you feel cosy and happy. During this time of year, kos can be quality time with loved ones, good food, a warm blanket, and soft lighting.
People tend to slow down and get more sleep, but otherwise, the Northerners cope quite well. The beautiful colours that appear in the sky help, as does vitamin D.
There are also fun events that light up the long nights, such as the world's longest Christmas porridge table in Mosjøen, an annual tradition that brings people together.
A great way to feel more awake during this time is a trip to a sauna, followed by a dip or two in an icy fjord. Most ski trails are also lit up, so people can still enjoy nature even when it's dark outside.
It also helps that the darkness doesn't last forever. When the sun finally returns, it's celebrated by Northerners.
Soldagen, or 'the sun day', is celebrated on different dates in different places, depending on when the sun actually returns. A popular way to celebrate this joyful day is by eating skoleboller, a sweet bun with a yellow vanilla custard centre, and drinking hot chocolate.
Fill the polar night with fun activities
Arctic winter
Winter in the northern part of Norway can be unpredictable, so it's best to be prepared in order to have an enjoyable experience.
The weather is the main factor to take into consideration. You can experience everything from snow and sunshine, to storms, pure ice and rain. Make sure that you dress in layers on cold days, and wear wind and water-resistant clothing on wet and windy days. It's very important to have good footwear, as it's never fun if your feet get wet and cold.
It's also important to keep the weather in mind if you plan on driving in the winter months. It can be quite dangerous if you don't have experience with driving in winter conditions, so if you're not comfortable with it, public transport or hiring a driver is a better option. There may also be delays due to the conditions, so make sure you're not in a rush.
Find more information here:
Winter in Northern Norway
A winter wonderland awaits!
Christmas in the North
Experience the holidays in Norway.
Discover the night sky
Look up and be amazed.
Travel through Northern Norway
Search for the northern lights
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