Imagine spending the holiday season in Iceland, where the island transforms into a winter wonderland with snow-covered landscapes, dancing northern lights, and unique traditions. You can experience this by strolling down the streets of Reykjavík, visiting charming Christmas markets, ice skating downtown under the lights, soaking in the many geothermal pools around the island, and hunting for the Northern Lights. Top it off on New Year’s Eve, where families gather for bonfires and light up fireworks to say goodbye to the old year and welcome the new one.

Here we’ve listed some of our favourite parts of the festive spirit and why Iceland is your ultimate destination for the holidays:

1. The Advent Season 

The festive season in Iceland begins with Advent. The first Sunday of Advent is often the day homes are decorated with lights to brighten the darker days. Families start baking for Christmas, filling the air with the delicious smell of freshly baked cookies. Advent is also a time of creation, and many homes create their own Advent wreaths, decorated with four Advent candles, each symbolizing hope and joy as Christmas approaches.

2. Unique Christmas Traditions 

Icelandic Christmas traditions are deeply rooted in folklore and history, making the holiday season here truly special. One of the most charming aspects is the 13 Yule Lads. These mischievous but friendly figures visit children on the 13 nights leading up to Christmas, leaving small gifts in their shoes if they’ve been good (or a potato if they’ve been naughty!). Each Yule Lad has a unique personality and story, adding a playful and whimsical touch to the festivities. Their names reflect their characteristics, such as Door-Slammer, Spoon-Licker, and Window-Peeper. Not to mention their parents, Grýla and Leppalúði, and their vicious Yule Cat! Grýla, their mother, is a mean child-eating troll, and their cat lurks around and eats people who have not received any new clothes before Christmas Eve.

If you're interested in knowing more, make sure to attend the Funky Christmas Myths and Traditions walk while in Reykjavík. 

The Yule Lads at Dimmuborgir, Mývatn 

3. Feasts and Local Delicacies 

Icelandic cuisine during the holidays is a treat for the senses. On December 23rd, Þorláksmessa, named after Iceland’s patron saint, St. Þorlákur, the tradition is to eat fermented skate, although many, especially the younger members, find it a bit too pungent for their taste. On December 24th, the church bells ring in Christmas, and everyone dresses up in their best clothes to celebrate Christmas Eve with their families. Traditional dishes like smoked lamb (hangikjöt), roast pork, turkey, or ptarmigan, accompanied by potatoes, leaf bread (laufabrauð), and malt & appelsín (a non-alcoholic malt drink mixed with orange soda) are staples at Christmas feasts. During Christmas, a rice pudding (möndlugrautur) often contains a hidden almond that brings good luck to the finder (and often a small present). The New Year’s Eve meal usually includes a hearty spread of local seafood and meats, followed by delicious desserts.

Icelandic Laufabrauð

4. New Year’s Eve Fireworks 

New Year’s Eve in Iceland is a spectacular event. This usually starts in the evening, when everyone has dressed up in their finest clothes and gather for dinner. After dinner, families head to the nearest bonfire, held around the city and in every town in Iceland. Families and friends meet up, warm up by the fire, and perhaps sing a few songs. The bonfires end with a great firework show before people head back home. Afterwards, people gather in front of the TV to watch a comedy show that makes fun of the passing year’s events. Then at midnight, the real fun begins. The skies light up with fireworks as locals celebrate with enthusiasm and joy. The tradition of setting off fireworks is a community effort, with almost every household participating. The result is a dazzling display that illuminates the night sky, creating a festive and exhilarating atmosphere. Icelanders usually buy their fireworks from the Search and Rescue teams to support their important work. This is their biggest fundraiser, as the Search and Rescue team is a nonprofit, volunteer-based organization.

If you're in Iceland on New Year's Eve and want to witness the magic in a unique way, try celebrating it at Sea! 

Fireworks at Midnight in Reykjavík

5. Unique Christmas Markets 

Icelandic Christmas markets are a delightful blend of local crafts, festive foods, and holiday cheer. Strolling through these markets, you can find unique handmade gifts, taste traditional treats, and enjoy live music and performances. The markets are a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture and festive spirit.

6. The Warmth of the People 

Despite the cold weather and short days, the warmth of Icelandic hospitality is sure to make you feel at home. The locals are known for their friendliness and welcoming nature. Even though it might not sound so warm in Iceland during the winter, the season actually brings people closer together. Friends and families often meet during the holidays for gatherings such as board games, dinner parties, or movie nights.

Ice Skating on Tjörnin, Reykjavík 

7. The Northern Lights 

Imagine celebrating Christmas under the mesmerizing dance of the Northern Lights. Iceland is one of the best places in the world to witness this natural phenomenon. During this time of the year, the days are at their shortest, with only around 4 hours of daylight. The long, dark nights of winter provide the perfect backdrop for the auroras, creating a breathtaking and unforgettable experience.

Northern Lights over Vík í Mýrdal, South Iceland. 

Conclusion 

Spending Christmas and New Year’s in Iceland is an experience like no other. The combination of enchanting traditions, stunning natural beauty, and warm hospitality creates a festive atmosphere that is both magical and heartwarming. Whether you’re watching the Northern Lights, enjoying a traditional feast, or celebrating with fireworks, Iceland offers a holiday season filled with unforgettable moments and cherished memories. So, pack your warmest clothes and get ready to embrace the festive spirit in this incredible winter wonderland.

Happy Holidays, or as we say in Iceland, Gleðileg jól og farsælt komandi ár! 

Thinking of spending the Holidays in Iceland but not sure what to do or where to stay? Let us at Hey Iceland help you create unforgettable memories. Reach out to us to begin planning your perfect holiday!