Christmas takes on unique flavors at the bottom of the world, as hundreds of people based across Antarctica celebrate the festive season surrounded by pristine snow and curious penguins. For employees of the British Antarctic Survey (BAS) and UK Antarctic Heritage Trust, spending Christmas away from family and friends does not mean forgoing holiday cheer.
The day starts differently for each member of the team. Zoological field assistant Derren Fox, stationed at Signy Island, shares, "On Christmas Day I'll head over to Gourlay Peninsula to carry out daily checks on the chinstrap and Adelie penguin colonies to monitor productivity. This will probably be followed by some sledging or snowman building with some of the other station members before returning to base for a traditional Christmas meal, this year cooked by our station leader, and then probably falling asleep...in front of a cheesy festive movie."
Fox sets the scene on Signy Island, located about 370 miles from the Antarctic Peninsula, where he has embraced his unique work-life balance. The station’s leader, Sarah Clark, who is responsible for preparing the Christmas dinner, also expresses excitement about the day. "The Signy tradition is for the station leader to cook Christmas dinner...We’ll have a nice brunch whilst reading the email greetings from all the other Antarctic stations. After dinner we’ll spend the evening enjoying games together," Clark adds. Even with just five members at their station, the camaraderie remains strong.
Meanwhile, Captain Will Whatley, master of the RRS Sir David Attenborough, indicates this season is operationally busy for those working on the ship. "Christmas is usually possible for us to take the day off...a good break from the busy Antarctic season." For the ship's crew, Christmas serves as both a time of reflection on the past year and moments to bond with their sea family.
Dr. Nisha Mistry, the ship's medical officer, plans to keep up with her usual tasks before enjoying some leisure time. "I hope to do my favourite thing - which is going outside to watch the icebergs," she remarks. This variety of perspectives showcases how each person makes the most of the holiday, even if some must continue their routine responsibilities.
Celebrations also blossom at historic sites like Port Lockroy, where Dale Ellis, responsible for the base's shop, oversees daily operations and also looks after the colony of gentoo penguins. Reflecting on her unusual surroundings, Ellis states, "The penguins make their own little highways...it's funny to watch." Each day, Ellis engages with passing tourists, ensuring they honor the local wildlife as they take in the breathtaking views. She fondly remembers, "It’s like being in a David Attenborough documentary," as she captures the magic of her surroundings.
Although accustomed to the frozen ecosystem and its challenges, Ellis remarks, "It's hard to know what day it is because of the light and constant shine. We have to set strict bedtime routines" to combat the 24-hour daylight.
Amongst the snow and ice, the dedicated group of individuals stationed at Rothera Research Station also prepares for this special time. Aurelia Reichardt, the station leader, mentions the importance of maintaining connections with their families back home. "Working in Antarctica can be isolATING...So having a festive atmosphere on station helps people feel connected." This sentiment fosters togetherness, with over 150 staff collaborating to whip up Christmas favorites including mince pies, and exchanging cultural traditions for the holiday season.
While staff at Rothera explore festive crafts during their time, meteorological operations will still take place, balancing work with recreation. "Most staff will fashion wreaths from recycled rubbish, and origami stars and penguins to decorate the doors," Reichardt explains.
The whimsical spirit of Christmas finds its home even through the logistical challenges of being stationed at the ends of the Earth. Despite glamour and adventure, team members make sure to capture holiday magic. Professor Tina van de Flierdt confirms, "We had mince pies for Christmas and five different types of cookies,” reminiscing on the joyful flavors shared during past celebrations.
Even the isolated volunteers working with the UK Antarctic Heritage Trust embrace their role and the festive vibes heaped upon the strong sense of community. This year's celebrations include efforts to monitor gentoo penguins, ensuring the survival of the local population by counting nests and eggs.
Finally, for those like Siobhán Egan, working as spa stewardess on charter yachts, the open waters of Antarctic give way to solace and serenity of the icy wilderness. "The sight of my first large iceberg was unforgettable—a moment of pure awe of nature's raw power," Egan states of her time spent cruising through the southernmost contours of the globe.
Each account confirms how various personalities adapt to their surroundings and find joy amid geographical isolation. For Ellis, Egan, and others, Christmas remains bright, sparkling, and surprising—even at the bottom of the world.
