Introduction to Chicagohenge

CHICAGO – An extraordinary event marking the start of spring is set to light up Chicago next week, creating a must-see spectacle. Chicagohenge, a natural phenomenon, happens twice a year—once to welcome spring and again to bid summer farewell. Here’s what you need to know to catch this stunning sight.

What is Chicagohenge?

The backstory: During the event, the sun perfectly aligned with Chicago’s east-west streets, creating a stunning view for residents. This alignment allows the sun to rise and set directly between the buildings, rather than being blocked by them.

When is Chicagohenge?

Timeline: This year, you can catch it from March 20 to March 23 during sunrise or sunset:

• Thursday, March 20 – Sunrise at 6:53 a.m. | Sunset at 7:03 p.m.
• Friday, March 21 – Sunrise at 6:51 a.m. | Sunset at 7:04 p.m.
• Saturday, March 22 – Sunrise at 6:50 a.m. | Sunset at 7:05 p.m.

What is an Equinox?

Big picture view: An equinox occurs when the Earth’s equator aligns directly with the sun. This happens twice a year: in March for the Spring Equinox and in September for the Fall Equinox. During an equinox, both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres experience roughly 12 hours of daylight and 12 hours of darkness. The equinox also marks the official change of seasons.

Where are the Best Places to See Chicagohenge?

What we know: The Adler Planetarium recommends heading to any of Chicago’s east-west facing streets to view the phenomenon. Photographer Barry Butler, who has shared his expertise with us before, suggests Randolph, Madison, and Chicago streets as some of the best spots to catch the event.

Getting Ready for Chicagohenge

To make the most of this experience, plan ahead and arrive at your chosen location early. Bring a camera to capture the stunning views, and don’t forget to share your photos on social media using relevant hashtags. You can also check the weather forecast in advance to ensure a clear sky for optimal viewing.

Conclusion

Chicagohenge is a unique and breathtaking event that offers a chance to witness the perfect alignment of the sun and Chicago’s streets. By understanding what Chicagohenge is, when it occurs, and where to view it, you can make the most of this experience. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness this natural phenomenon and capture stunning photos to remember the moment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Chicagohenge:

• Q: What is Chicagohenge?

  A: Chicagohenge is a natural phenomenon where the sun aligns perfectly with Chicago’s east-west streets, creating a stunning view for residents.

• Q: When does Chicagohenge occur?

  A: Chicagohenge happens twice a year, once to welcome spring and again to bid summer farewell, specifically from March 20 to March 23.

• Q: What is an equinox?

  A: An equinox occurs when the Earth’s equator aligns directly with the sun, resulting in roughly 12 hours of daylight and 12 hours of darkness in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres.

• Q: Where are the best places to see Chicagohenge?

  A: The Adler Planetarium recommends heading to any of Chicago’s east-west facing streets, while Photographer Barry Butler suggests Randolph, Madison, and Chicago streets as some of the best spots to catch the event.

The Source: Information in this article came from previous FOX 32 coverage, the Adler Planetarium, and Photographer Barry Butler.