Thousands Cheer as the Sun Rises on Winter Solstice at Stonehenge

LONDON (AP) — Thousands of people have gathered at Stonehenge to celebrate the winter solstice. On Sunday, they cheered and danced as the sun rose over the prehistoric stone circle. Many wore costumes and arrived before dawn in southwest England. Some sang and beat drums, while others reflected among the huge stone pillars. The ancient monument was built to align with the sun’s movement on the winter and summer solstices, important dates for ancient farmers. Sunday marks the shortest day of the year north of the equator. Many celebrate it as a time of renewal, as the days will now start getting longer.