Northern Lights in September 2025: Your Guide to First Sightings

With summer's long days now giving way, a celestial wonder makes preparations for its grand comeback: the Northern Lights. September is the thrilling beginning of aurora season in the Arctic, presenting a special chance to witness this otherworldly sight before the biting coldness of deep winter arrives. For the eager and early bird who can't wait to witness the vibrant greens, purples, and reds coloring the night sky in 2025, here's where to look.

Why September is the Optimal Time

Although the Northern Lights are evident the entire darker season (approximately September to April), September has a particular charm. The weather is not as harsh as the frigid temperatures in the middle of winter, so it's easier to view outside. In addition, the equinox effect at this time can amplify geomagnetic activity, leading to more frequent and intense aurora displays. In 2025, a major peak in solar activity is expected to persist throughout the year, increasing the likelihood of spectacular views even more.

Top Destinations for September 2025 Aurora Chasers

To have the best chances of witnessing the Northern Lights, you must travel to high latitudes, preferably in or near the "auroral oval" – the area around the Earth's magnetic poles where aurora activity is most intense. Clear dark skies with minimal light pollution are also essential.

Following are some of the premier locations to plan for your September 2025 aurora tour:

1. Tromsø, Norway: The "Gateway to the Arctic"

Deep in the Norwegian Arctic, Tromsø is a perennial top choice to witness the Northern Lights.

• Why September? Because here, the season for the aurora officially begins in late September with guaranteed sightings. Its accessibility, lively citylife, and wild surroundings also make it a perfect base.

• Experience: You can go on guided aurora chases, go dog-sledding or take reindeer sleigh rides, or even stay in aurora-viewing accommodations just outside the city. The city itself is also a perfect combination of urban beauty and Arctic adventure.

2. Finnish Lapland (particularly Rovaniemi, Saariselkä, and Nellim), Finland

Finland's large wilderness and lightless skies are an ideal place. The season of the auroras in Finnis Lapland begins at the end of August and the beginning of September.

• Why September? September provides pleasant temperatures and the return of darkness after the midnight sun. The likelihood of seeing auroras is considerably better from mid-September onwards, particularly in northern areas.

• Experience: Rovaniemi, Santa Claus's official hometown, presents tremendous aurora potential along with other Arctic activities. For a more secluded and natural wilderness experience with very little light pollution, try Nellim or Saariselkä, where you can overnight in special glass igloos or cabins with transparent roofs for easy viewing from your bed.

3. Fairbanks, Alaska, USA

Located just beneath the auroral oval, Fairbanks has a long and reliable aurora season that runs as early as August and continues to April.

• Why September? Fairbanks has dark skies and little light pollution, offering consistent chances.

• Experience: In addition to aurora pursuit, Fairbanks has snowmobiling, hot springs, and other winter activities, making it a complete experience.

4. Iceland (particularly Thingvellir National Park, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, and the Westfjords)

Iceland's rugged scenery is the perfect backdrop for viewing the Northern Lights, and September is the start of its best viewing season.

• Why September? Iceland's position below the Arctic Circle and extensive open areas increase viewing opportunities. The Westfjords, especially, have longer nights and fewer clouds.

• Experience: Visit secluded locations such as Thingvellir National Park, where low light pollution provides spectacular views, or Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where the auroras bounce off water. Some resorts even provide wake-up calls for aurorae.

5. Abisko, Sweden

Abisko National Park is famous for its "Blue Hole," a section of sky that tends to stay clear even when adjacent areas are cloudy, so it's a great location for aurora seekers.

• Why September? The onset of darkness in September brings the aurora season.

• Experience: There are special viewing opportunities available at Abisko's Aurora Sky Station.

6. Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, Canada: The "Aurora Capital of the World"

Yellowknife is one of the top spots on the planet to see the Northern Lights, with a remarkable frequency of clear nights throughout the year and located squarely within the auroral oval.

• Why in September? September is ranked one of the finest months for viewing the aurora in Yellowknife, with statistically favorable odds of observation. The relatively warmer temperatures than in deep winter provide a more pleasant viewing experience, and you get to view the lovely fall foliage during the daytime.

• Experience: Yellowknife provides many opportunities to observe the aurora, ranging from specialized tours that take you to dark sky sites, often complete with heated teepees or cabins, to do-it-yourself viewing areas scattered around the city. You can pair your aurora search with other activities such as visits to the city's distinctive history and Native culture. There are many tours available as multi-night packages, allowing you more time to catch a viewing.

September 2025 will be a great month for Northern Lights watchers, with heightened solar activity providing the possibility of truly spectacular displays. By going to the right location and being prepared, you will be able to greatly increase your chances of seeing this magical dance of light in the Arctic heavens.