Chasing the Glow: A Recap of Our 2026 Northern Lights Season
The 2026 Aurora season was truly one for the books. With the Solar Maximum in full swing, the skies above Churchill, Manitoba, weren’t just active—they were electric.
Throughout February-March 2026 our guests experienced some magical moments all set beneath the dancing northern lights. From the roaring energy of G3-class geomagnetic storms to the delicate, rhythmic dance of violet curtains, this year was a vivid reminder of why we embrace the sub-zero temperatures. Here is a look at what the season was like.

Photo Specialist Guides Deb and Jason Ransom pose to take a photo beneath the dancing northern lights as Deb celebrated her 50th birthday that night! A magical moment shared by our team and guests.
A 100% Success Rate
For over five consecutive years, every single guest who joined us for a winter tour witnessed the Northern Lights and 2026 was no exception. Not a single guest went home without checking that transformative moment off their bucket list. Something we don’t think many other destinations can say.
Churchill continues to solidify its reputation as the best place in Canada to view the northern lights. There is something undeniably special about standing out on the snow away from town, hearing the silence of the subarctic, and watching the sky ignite. We enjoyed soaking in these moments with our guests.
2026: By the Numbers
The night sky was remarkably active throughout February and March.
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High Kp-Indexs: Multiple nights of intense geomagnetic activity.
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Vibrant Hues: Frequent sightings of pinks and purples as well
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In March the aurora borealis made an appearance 29 night out of 31 thats about 94% of the time and February was just as great.
- Checkout the Churchill Northern Lights Camera to see highlights from winter 2026.
Captured on Camera: Our Favourite Moments
While photos can never truly replace the feeling of being there, these shots from our 2026 season come pretty close:
Photo taken by Interpretive Guide Heather Hinam (@secondnatureManitoba)
Good times waiting for the aurora borealis to appear at the Yurt on February 25, 2026
Northern Lights over our Thanadelthur Lounge viewing location on March 11, 2026
Snowshoe reflection photo taken by Interpretive Guide Jeff Higdon on February 17, 2026
Two of our 2026 northern lights guests soaking in the moment February 26, 2026
A Taste of the Tundra: The 2026 Tasting Menu
At Dan’s Diner, our culinary team doesn’t just feed you; they tell the story a story through their dishes. This year’s menu was inspired by the land, the river, and the sky.
A collection of images of the 2026 Dan's Diner menu
|
Course |
Dish |
Key Flavours |
|
1 |
"Snacks" Course |
Potato, Flax, and Tart Cloudberry |
|
2 |
Forest Course |
Wild Mushroom, Thyme, Walnut, and Lingonberry |
|
3 |
Sea Course |
Manitoba Pickerel with Shallot, Dill, and Crisp Cabbage |
|
4 |
Eye of Ribeye |
Ribeye, Black Currant, and traditional Elk Tourtiére |
|
5 |
The "Northern Lights" |
Mulled Wine, Balsam Fir, and Bartlett Pear |
|
6 |
Ice Bar Experience |
An exclusive outdoor surprise on the frozen river |
|
7 |
Dessert |
Butterscotch and Earthy Candy Cap Mushroom cake |
Special Highlight: This season, we were incredibly proud to host our first-ever nights at Dan’s Diner featuring an all-female staff team, celebrating the incredible women who serve delicious meals beneath the aurora borealis.
In 2026 We Added Complimentary Gear
Our 2026 Northern Lights guests stayed cozy all season long thanks to our latest upgrade: complimentary premium winter gear rental. To ensure you focus on the sky and not the cold, all winter tours now include a Canada Goose parka, Canada Goose snow pants, and Baffin boots provided for the duration of your trip. Comfort is now part of the package.
Checkout our gear rental program

Ready to join us in 2027?
The lights aren't slowing down yet. If you missed out on joining us in 2026 now is the perfect time to plan your 2027 northern lights adventure. Give us a call!
1-204-949-2050 (International)
1-800-663-9832 (Toll Free North America)
👉 View our 2027 winter adventures