The “midnight sun,” also known as the “polar day,” is a natural phenomenon that occurs during the summer months in regions located north of the Arctic Circle or south of the Antarctic Circle. During this period, the Earth’s tilted axis causes the sun to remain above the horizon for 24 hours a day, so it never fully sets.
Here are five cities and regions that experience continuous daylight:
1. Tromsø, Norway
Often called the “Gateway to the Arctic,” Tromsø is a vibrant city in northern Norway that experiences the midnight sun from late May to late July. Visitors and locals take full advantage of the endless daylight for activities such as hiking, kayaking, and fishing at all hours of the day and night. The city’s lively cultural scene, with museums, festivals, and restaurants, also thrives under the continuous light.
2. Svalbard, Norway
Located halfway between mainland Norway and the North Pole, the Svalbard archipelago experiences the midnight sun for a remarkably long period, from mid-April to late August. In this unique, remote environment, where polar bears outnumber people, the sun stays in the sky for over four months. Visitors can participate in extraordinary activities like midnight glacier hikes, dog sledding, or exploring the vast wilderness under the constant, golden light.
3. Murmansk, Russia
Murmansk holds the distinction of being the world’s largest city north of the Arctic Circle. Due to its high latitude, the city experiences the midnight sun for about two months, from late May to late July. Despite its harsh climate, the city is a major industrial and transport hub, and its inhabitants and visitors enjoy the continuous daylight for various activities, including city tours and exploring the surrounding Barents Sea.
4. Fairbanks, Alaska, USA
Fairbanks is the largest city in Alaska’s interior and a prime location for witnessing the midnight sun. While the sun technically dips below the horizon for a brief period during the summer solstice, the sky remains light enough for daytime activities to continue around the clock. The city celebrates this phenomenon with a “Midnight Sun Festival,” which includes events like the world-famous midnight baseball game.
5. Inuvik, Canada
Located in Canada’s Northwest Territories, Inuvik is a northernmost city accessible by road in the summer. It experiences continuous sunlight for 56 consecutive days. During this time, residents and tourists enjoy a range of events, including the Midnight Sun Fun Run. The continuous daylight also makes it a haven for birdwatchers, as many migratory birds nest in the area during this period.
