Introduction

Dreaming of seeing the sky light up with green, pink, and purple swirls? The northern lights (aurora borealis) are one of the world’s most breathtaking natural shows. But to catch them, timing and location are everything. Here’s your complete 2026 on when and where to see the northern lights.

What Are the Northern Lights?

The northern lights also known as the aurora borealis is a beautiful light show that is usually observed in the poles. Auroras happen when particles from the sun hit Earth’s magnetic field, creating glowing colors in the night sky.which are usually green, pink, and purple.

The occurrence and strength of the auroras are associated with the solar cycle which is a period of about 11 years where the solar activity varies. The most active period of the sun is known as solar maximum, and it is usually the time when the aurora is most active, so this is the best time to organise a viewing trip.

Best Time of Year to See the Northern Lights

The optimal time to observe northern lights is based on a number of factors, and the season of northern lights is one of the most significant. In most cases, the auroras are seen most in the winter seasons, between late September and early April when the nights are longest, and the skies darkest.

Aurora activity is significantly contributed by the solar cycle. The magnetic field of the sun is most active during solar maximum which causes more solar flares and coronal mass ejections. This enhances the possibility of strong auroras, which are usually seen in lower latitudes. However, in solar minimum, the auroral activity is reduced and the sightings are less frequent, especially in areas that are further away.

When and Where to See Northern Lights.

If you’re hoping to see the northern lights in their full glory, timing and location are key. The best time and place to see northern lights combines optimal viewing months with the right geographical spots known for frequent auroral displays.

Northern Lights Season

The northern lights season lasts between late September and March with the most common and intense auroral displays being experienced during the winter months. The months of December through February are considered the best months because of the long nights and the generally clearer skies.

Northern Lights November

November is one of the best months to see the northern lights, thanks to clear skies and milder weather compared to mid-winter.

Northern Lights during Other Months (September to March)

Although winter months are the best, there are other seasons when you can see the northern lights. The auroras may still be seen in late August and early September, particularly around the equinox when the solar activity is likely to be high. Likewise, March is a great month to view, as the temperatures are a bit warmer and the spring equinox makes aurora viewing better.

Northern Lights: Where to See them?

The northern lights are visible in many places across the globe especially in the poles. There are also some of the most favourable locations to view the northern lights, which are characterised by frequent occurrence of the aurora and favourable viewing conditions.

Norway - Tromso and Abisko

Tromso is a Norwegian city in the north, and it is said to be one of the most favorable places to observe the auroras. It has long nights in the winter months as it is located above the Arctic Circle. In Sweden, Abisko is also known to have clear skies and a high probability of seeing the aurora.

Canada - Churchill

Another best place to view the aurora is Churchill, a small town in Canada. It is located in the far north and is one of the most ideal locations to view the northern lights, as the skies are clear and there is little light pollution.

Iceland - Reykjavik

Iceland, with its otherworldly scenery and closeness to the Arctic Circle, has several chances to see the northern lights. Reykjavik is the best place to be, as you can enjoy the sight of the aurora and the beautiful nature of Iceland, such as geysers, volcanoes, and glaciers.

Alaska, USA - Fairbanks

Another great location to see the auroras is Fairbanks, Alaska. It is also among the most frequented places by aurora watchers due to its northern position and the dark skies it has throughout the winter season.

Lapland - Finland

Another popular place to see the northern lights is Lapland in Finland. Lapland is known to have huge snowy landscapes and a magical atmosphere, which provides great opportunities to see the auroras, particularly in the areas of Rovaniemi and the surrounding areas. The dark nights and clear skies in the region during winter make it an ideal destination to the aurora lovers. To achieve this, Large Minority hosts the Lapland Husky Adventure annually in March. We are very much looking forward to seeing you all next year.

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Do the Northern Lights Show up with the Naked Eye?

Yes, it is possible to observe the northern lights using the naked eye, but there are some factors that make it better. The dark sky with no light pollution is the most likely to view the auroras in their full glory. The auroras can be less vivid or dimmer in places where there is high light pollution. Also, the intensity of the aurora, which is determined by the KP index, influences the visibility of the lights using the naked eye.

How to Photograph the Northern Lights?

It is not always easy to capture the northern lights using a camera, but with the correct tips and tricks, you can get some amazing results.

Photography Tips DSLR and Mirrorless Cameras

A DSLR or mirrorless camera with manual settings is the best choice to achieve the best results. The auroras will be captured with the help of a wide-aperture lens (f/2.8 or less) and long exposure times (15-20 seconds). Maintain the ISO at 800-3200 and this is based on the ambient and the camera.

Smartphone Photography of Northern Lights

When you are on a smartphone, make sure that it has a night mode. Although smartphones cannot compete with DSLR, it is possible to take a picture of the northern lights by stabilising your phone and setting the exposure time to the maximum in the night mode.

Auroral Activity: The Knowledge of How to Track the Northern Lights

To plan your northern lights adventure, it is important to track the auroral activity. There are a number of online tools that can assist you in predicting the most appropriate time and location to view the auroras.

Space Weather Live

Space Weather Live is a source of real-time information on the occurrence of the auroras, such as the KP index, which is essential in determining the visibility of the auroras in your area.

NOAA's Aurora Dashboard

The Aurora Dashboard by NOAA will give you information on solar activity and predictions of the aurora, so you can plan ahead to see the best.

My Aurora Forecast & Alerts

My Aurora Forecast is a convenient application (download the Android app and iOS app here) that helps to follow the northern lights. It gives notifications depending on your position so that you are prepared to see the aurora when it is visible.

Why is 2026 a golden year for aurora hunters?

Northern lights are best viewed during the long winter nights of the northern lights season, which is between late September and March. November is the month when the conditions are the best to see the aurora, as the weather is moderate, and the skies are clear. With the correct choice of location and a watch on the solar activity, you are likely to have the best opportunity of viewing the spectacular northern lights.

Want more than just a glimpse? Join our Lapland Husky Adventure in March 2026, designed for aurora chasers who want an unforgettable experience.

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5 Frequently Asked Questions about the Northern Lights

What is the Optimal Time to view the Northern Lights at Night?

The northern lights are most active between 10 pm and 2 am local time and this is the best time to view the lights.

What is the Impact of KP Index on Aurora Visibility?

The KP index is used to gauge the geomagnetic activity where a high index means a high probability of viewing the aurora, even at lower latitudes.

What is STEVE and How Does it Compare to the Aurora Borealis?

A less well-known phenomenon is the STEVE (Strong Thermal Emission Velocity Enhancement) which is an aurora-like event. It is not the aurora borealis, but it also produces beautiful light shows, usually purple and pink.

Preparation of Cold Weather when viewing the Northern lights.

Wear lots of clothes, thermal socks and gloves, a warm hat and jacket to keep you warm in the cold when you are out watching the aurora over a long period.

What Gear to Take on an Aurora Hunt?

The necessary equipment is a decent camera, a tripod, warm clothes, and a flashlight. An aurora app or site to monitor activity is also useful.