In England, many Druids celebrate the longest night of the year by conducting a ritual at Stonehenge. While it is the first day of Winter, many of the modern-day Druids are celebrating the fact that the days will get longer until the Summer Solstice in 2013.

The ancients held many feasts to honor the changing of the seasons: Saturnalia, Yule and Meán Geimhridh are just a few examples. But today, many Druids and other Pagan paths chant, dance and sing at Stonehenge and bring these ancient Solstice celebrations to life once more. Here are some of the best shots from the event.

The Winter King Blesses His Followers

Druids At Stonehenge
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A Druid Leader Talks to the Crowd

Druid Leader
Matt Cardy, Getty Images
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The Crowd Cheers for the First Day of Winter

Druids at Stonehenge
Matt Cardy, Getty Images
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The Druids Lead the Ritual for the Solstice

Druids Celebrate Winter Solstice At Stonehenge
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A 'Merlin' Lookalike Watches the Ritual

Druids Celebrate Winter Solstice At Stonehenge
Matt Cardy, Getty Images
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Celebrating the Rising Sun

Druids Celebrate the Rising Sun
Matt Cardy, Getty Images
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The Winter Solstice Sun Rises Upon Stonehenge

Winter Solstice At Stonehenge
Matt Cardy, Getty Images
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A Match Made in Druid Heaven

Druid Couple
Matt Cardy, Getty Images
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The Crowded Ritual at Stonehenge

Druids at Stonehenge in England
Matt Cardy, Getty Images
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The Crowd Watches as the Sun Rises

Druids Celebrate
Matt Cardy, Getty Images
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