The mystical Aurora Borealis illuminated the skies over the Twin Cities on November 11, 2025, captivating residents with its stunning display. This natural phenomenon, often described as a breathtaking spectacle, unfolded midweek, inviting people to pause and appreciate the beauty overhead. Residents across the region experienced swirling colors reminiscent of fairy tale scenes, sparking a renewed sense of wonder.
The vibrant lights were reported in various locations, including Ely, Owatonna, Hibbing, and Taylors Falls. People from all around in communities like Alexandria, Pine City, Stillwater, and White Bear expressed their excitement. Inquiries flooded social media as individuals shared their experiences, asking if others were witnessing the same enchanting show. The sheer unpredictability of the Aurora Borealis adds to its charm, leaving observers in awe with each changing wave of color.
Joe Soucheray, a local journalist, reflected on his own encounters with the Aurora. He recalled seeing the lights for the first time during summer at Leech Lake, where the experience was both mesmerizing and overwhelming. He described the electrical energy of the lights as something beyond comprehension, a sentiment echoed by many who witnessed the phenomenon.
On the night of the event, many gathered at the Highland Golf Course in St. Paul, hoping for a clearer view. While some left disappointed, the use of smartphone cameras revealed a different reality. The enhanced sensitivity of these devices captured the vibrant hues of the aurora, transforming what the naked eye could barely perceive into vibrant displays of color.
Text messages circulated as friends and family shared their own captures of the lights. One individual sent an image from her front steps, showcasing the dazzling colors, while another, traveling between St. Louis and Washington, D.C., shared a striking photo that evoked imagery of a watermelon against the horizon. Each contribution added to the collective excitement, reminding everyone that nature’s beauty could be found even in their own backyards.
Following the initial display, anticipation built as reports indicated that the following evening, November 12, could potentially offer an even more spectacular view. Many prepared their cameras and ventured out, eager to witness another round of the aurora. Despite efforts to find a darker landscape for optimal viewing, the second night yielded fewer results for those in the city. Meanwhile, those further north seemed to be more accustomed to the lights and perhaps less inclined to share their experiences.
As the event concluded, residents returned to their daily routines, but the impact of the Aurora Borealis remained fresh in their minds. Such natural wonders serve as a reminder of the beauty that exists in the world, prompting a collective appreciation for the extraordinary moments that can unfold when one least expects it.
For those interested in more insights, Soucheray can be contacted at [email protected], and his podcast, “Garage Logic,” is available at garagelogic.com.
