Midwinter Day: Antarctica’s answer to Christmas
21/06/2024
Christmas celebrations may be far from our minds at this time of year but 21 June has always been a red-letter day in the Antarctic calendar as those South mark the shortest and darkest day of the year, Midwinter Day.
This year the day takes on special significance as it marks eight decades since the establishment of Base A at Port Lockroy when Britain’s research on the continent began. Today is an opportunity not only to celebrate but to reflect on the remarkable strides that have been made in polar science at this time.
In 1944, the nine men at Port Lockroy endured two months of twilight with no sun to lift their spirits during the continuous drab, grey days. Midwinter Day, Antarctica’s answer to Christmas, dawned cold but fine. The men treated themselves to a lie-in followed by a pleasurable afternoon ski session and a slap-up meal in the evening courtesy of Berry and Blyth. The menu was both impressive and extensive, all was washed down with “a few drinks to enliven the proceedings”.
- Hors D’Oeuvres
- Puree of Pea
- Fried Pilchards
- Asparagus au Buerre
- York Ham
- Potatoes: Baked and Croquette
- Garden Peas
- Plum Pudding – Hard Sauce
- Macédoine Fruit en Jelly
- Mince Pies
- Coffee
The 1944 Midwinter Menu (Credit: BAS Archives)
Amid the celebrations, a message arrived for Marr to announce his wife had given birth to his second child. With a further excuse to celebrate the revelry lasted far into the night.
Over 80 years, the special building and scene of their party, has endured winter after winter. However, with protective paint peeling and structural wooden beams deteriorating, we need your help to raise over £30,000 for essential repairs and maintenance.
This month you can help to support the conservation work by sending your very own festive postcard from Antarctica for £20, making a donation or sharing this story with your friends.
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