July 11th, 2023 – This week, on July 12^th and 13^th, we have a rare celestial treat in store for us in Greater Puget Sound! And there’s no better place to take in the show than your hot tub.

The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, have for centuries marveled and inspired us humans. While they are usually seen in the far northern reaches of Earth, in Greater Puget Sound, we rarely get to witness the stunning natural phenomenon. This week presents an exciting opportunity to see the Northern Lights!

Ever wonder how this fabulous show manifests in the sky? Northern Lights are a natural light show created when charged particles from the sun come into contact with the Earth’s magnetic field. These charged particles collide with atoms and gases in the Earth’s atmosphere, creating a colorful light display. The colors of the Northern Lights depend on the altitude and the gas molecules present in the atmosphere. Usually, the colors range from green to pink.

The lights should be visible from any location with a clear view of the northern horizon, far away from cities’ light pollution. The ideal places to watch the northern lights are settled in the San Juan Islands or the Olympic Peninsula, although this time they should also clearly be in sight in the Seattle area. The key is to darken the surrounding of your hot tub to maximize your view. Reports are saying anytime from 10 p.m. to 3 a.m. is the best window to see the show. And be patient! The aurora can appear anytime during that time frame.

Watching the Northern Lights from the comfort of your hot tub is the perfect way to take in the show! Immersing yourself in that hot bubbly water will prime your senses. Add aromatherapy to your tub and soothing music to enhance your experience. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the spectacle and reflect on our small space in a very big world.

Seeing this natural wonder is awe-inspiring and can be a lifetime memory. While I tend to want the hot tub to be device free time, this is one opportunity to take some great shots or videos with your smartphone. If you take some shots, we’d love to see them and share them on our Instagram! You can send them to info@olympichottub.com.

And…if you don’t have a hot tub at home? Consider a visit to either Discovery Park in Magnolia or Golden Gardens Park in Ballard. Both are open until 11:30 those nights.

Enjoy!