Stargazing in December
11th December 2024
11th December 2024
As December continues, the night sky offers breathtaking spectacles, from the glittering Geminids meteor shower to the luminous Full Cold Moon. This time of year is made even more magical at The Pantiles.
With our Christmas Markets in full swing, The Pantiles is the perfect destination to combine stargazing with a cosy, festive evening under the stars.
Known as the “King of Meteor Showers,” the Geminids light up the night sky with up to 150 meteors per hour under ideal conditions. Caused by debris from asteroid 3200 Phaethon, these meteors are some of the brightest of the year.
The Geminids are most visible after midnight, making it the ideal post-market activity to gaze upwards and marvel at the natural display.
This month’s full moon, aptly named the Cold Moon, bathes the longest nights of the year in its soft silver glow. Observed for centuries, it signals the transition to winter and creates a magical ambiance perfect for an evening stroll through The Pantiles.
The Christmas Markets at The Pantiles are not just a daytime delight, they’re an evening spectacle. As the sun sets and the stars begin to twinkle, the wooden chalets come alive with twinkling lights and seasonal decorations.
Unique Gifts and Local Finds: Browse beautifully crafted items, from handmade ornaments to artisanal foods, perfect for holiday gifting.
Festive Food and Drink: Warm up with mulled wine or hot chocolate from the market stalls or enjoy hearty fare from nearby restaurants.
Lights and Atmosphere: The glow of the market lights, combined with the historic colonnade of The Pantiles, creates a magical setting to start your stargazing adventure.
Make an evening of it by exploring the market, picking up a cosy blanket or scarf, and heading out to enjoy the celestial wonders above!
The Pantiles isn’t just a festive hotspot, it’s also a fantastic starting point for your stargazing evening. Its proximity to scenic countryside locations means you’re only a short journey away from darker skies ideal for viewing meteors and the full moon.
Meteor Origins: The Geminids come from an asteroid, not a comet like most meteor showers, making them unique.
Cold Moon Brightness: The Cold Moon reflects 12% of sunlight, making it bright enough to illuminate even the darkest winter nights.
Local Stargazing Spots: The High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, just a short drive from The Pantiles, offers excellent viewing conditions.
This December, The Pantiles combines the wonder of the night sky with the joy of the festive season. Whether you’re marvelling at the Geminids, basking in the glow of the Cold Moon, or exploring the Christmas Markets, there’s no better place to celebrate this magical time of year.