For some cities around the world, winter isn’t just cold; It’s pitch black! If you’re scratching your head in surprise, you’re not alone. Called ‘Polar Night’, it is a natural wonder where the Sun takes a long vacation, leaving these cities to enjoy the glow of starlight, moonlight and the occasional Aurora Borealis. Here’s a look at the places where “dawn” in winter is more of a concept than a reality.

Barrow (Utqiagvik), alaska

Dates: Mid November to late January

In this Alaskan town, one of the northernmost parts of the world, the sun drops below the horizon in November and doesn’t bother to appear until January. But locals aren’t nervous—they’ve got sled dogs, coffee, and more Northern Lights To keep them company. Don’t miss the “Polar Bear Plunge,” where brave souls dive into the icy waters because… why not?

Tromsø, norway

Dates: Late November to mid January

Known as the “Gateway to the Arctic,” Tromsø remains dark for more than a month, where the only light that keeps you company during the polar night comes from the Aurora Borealis. But there is not complete darkness all the time. Locals talk about seeing the mesmerizing colors of the sunset in the south, while the north glows in a mesmerizing blue. They go to work and school as usual, and live their lives as usual.

Svalbard, Norway

Dates: Mid November to late January

This remote archipelago in the Arctic Circle is the place where polar bears outnumber humans. Svalbard’s dark winters are stunningly beautiful, with snow-covered landscapes bathed in the eerie glow of the moon. It is the ultimate destination for dark-sky enthusiasts and photographers as it remains completely dark in the afternoon for several weeks.

Murmansk, Russia

Dates: Early December to early January

The largest city above the Arctic Circle, Murmansk, does not see the sun for about 40 days each winter. But that doesn’t mean it’s all bleak. The city offers vibrant cultural festivals, hearty Russian cuisine, and lessons for those who want to learn how to survive the harsh Arctic winter.

Longyearbyen, Norway

Dates: October to February

This northernmost city on Earth does not do things by halves. For almost four months, Longyearbyen experiences the polar night in full force. But polar nightsYou can go hiking, join an ATV safari or perhaps try dog ​​sledding using wagons on the roads.

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