Snow’s got you down? Don’t worry, here’s something that might light up your mood. One of the most spectacular golden hours of the year is about to happen in Toronto next month. “Torontohenge” is a rare phenomenon that happens when the sunset aligns with the city’s east and west streets. And if you miss it this time around, you’ll get to see it a few more times this year. Here’s what to know.
What is “Torontohenge”?
The jaw-dropping solar display, “Torontohenge,” was named after the same phenomenon in Manhattan called “Manhattanhenge,” coined by astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson, according to The Weather Network.
The sun’s rays between the skyscrapers create an effect similar to Stonehenge, a prehistoric sundial-shaped monument in England, hence the word “henge” in its name.
The spectacular event occurs twice per year at sunrise and twice at sunset, according to civil engineer Ralph Bouwmeester, who specializes in tracking the sun and shadows.
Local photographers capture some of the most stunning images, as the sun sets between buildings on either side of the street.
It’s something you have to see for yourself!
“Although Torontohenge technically falls on the dates given below, great photos can be taken for about a week before the August and October dates and a week after the February and April dates as the rising/setting sun passes over the street,” shares Bouwmeester on his official site.
“Not great for driving, but quite a sight just the same.”
Here are the “Torontohenge” dates for 2026:
- Feb. 15, 2026 – 5:48 p.m. EST
- April 19, 2026 – 6:28 a.m. EDT
- Aug. 23, 2026 – 6:31 a.m. EDT
- Oct. 25, 2026 – 6:18 p.m. EDT
“If you prefer to see the sun perched on the horizon (i.e. bottom of sun touches horizon), then subtract 3 minutes from the times shown above for February and October, and add 3 minutes in April and August,” adds Bouwmeester. After all, you definitely want the best picture.
Now, as to where to get the best picture, find a spot along skyscraper-lined roads in the city’s downtown core with unobstructed views of the western horizon.
These areas include:
- Wellington Street W.
- King Street W.
- Adelaide Street W.
- Richmond Street W.
Considering Toronto’s weather has been a downer, we’ll keep you updated on conditions closer to.
But we’ll keep our fingers crossed and hope to see the stunning spectacle clear as day, this February.
Recent Posts:
A retro arcade filled with old school games and snacks is coming to Toronto
One of the world’s rarest violins is taking centre stage in Toronto
