Why Seeing The Northern Lights Should Be On Your Bucket List

Witnessing the aurora borealis, more commonly known as the northern lights, is a mesmerizing experience. This natural light display has captivated human imagination for millennia, creating an unparalleled sense of awe and wonder. It’s not just about seeing the lights—it’s about immersing yourself in an ancient natural phenomenon, appreciating diverse cultures, having the chance to observe amazing wildlife, and capturing incredible memories. These are all the reasons why seeing the northern lights should be on your bucket list.

Experience the Wonder and Awe of an Ancient Natural Phenomenon

The northern lights are more than just beautiful—they’re a natural phenomenon that illustrates the physical and chemical properties of the earth and the sun. They occur due to the earth’s magnetic field interacting with charged particles from the sun.

This celestial collision results in vibrant waves of color lighting up the night sky. Seeing this ancient natural phenomenon firsthand is a humbling experience that connects us with the vast universe beyond our world.

It’s Different Every Time, So Your Experience Will Be Unique

No two displays of northern lights are alike, meaning every visit offers a unique experience. The colors, patterns, and intensity can vary greatly, adding to the thrill and anticipation.

Beautiful Vacation Spots

While the northern lights are potentially visible from many places, some locations offer particularly breathtaking views. Iceland, with its stunning landscapes, is a prime spot for aurora viewing.

Churchill, Manitoba, Canada, offers amazing northern lights viewing and opportunities for polar bear and beluga whale sightings. Luxury accommodations nearby provide tours and adventures featuring viewing both the aurora and area wildlife.

Jasper, Alberta, Canada, boasts the second largest Dark Sky Preserve on the planet, providing a refuge from light pollution against an extraordinary backdrop of mountains and lakes that enhances your aurora borealis experience.

Iceland is a favorite among many women travelers to experience this phenomenon.

Gain an Appreciation for Indigenous Cultures

The northern lights hold significant cultural and spiritual meaning for many Indigenous peoples. For instance, the Cree believe the lights are the spirits of their ancestors dancing in the sky. Indigenous people in Finland call the lights “revontulet,” which means “fox fire.” Their myth states that a fire fox’s tail causes the lights, sending sparks up to the sky. Sami people of Norway believe the lights are the souls of ancestors who don’t want you to disturb them. Waving at the lights or even talking about them risks having the dead reach out and snatch you into the sky.

By seeing the northern lights, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for these cultures and their rich histories and traditions tied to this natural phenomenon.

Take the Most Amazing Pictures of Your Life

Finally, the northern lights offer a fantastic opportunity for photography. With the right equipment and conditions, you can capture stunning images that will serve as lifelong reminders of your adventure.

Add Seeing the Northern Lights to Your Bucket List

Seeing the northern lights should be on your bucket list because observing them isn’t just about watching a natural spectacle—it’s about embarking on a journey of discovery, appreciation, and awe.

Dianne Pajo

Dianne Pajo is a writer based out of the Chicagoland area with a passion for music, combat sports, and animals. She enjoys competing in amateur boxing and kickboxing, but in her other leisure time, you can find her performing music around the city. She is also a dog mom of 2.