Christmas and New Year in Iceland are truly enchanting. Streets are adorned with twinkling lights, creating a warm glow amidst the winter darkness, while vibrant fireworks cascade across the sky on New Year’s Eve. Coupled with the mesmerizing Northern Lights, stunning blue ice caves, and an idyllic snowy landscape, this season transforms Iceland into a winter wonderland that’s hard to resist.
What to Expect During Christmas & New Year in Iceland
The holiday season in Iceland is a delightful blend of festive lights, the charming Yule Lads, and breathtaking snowy vistas. Temperatures are relatively mild, hovering around 0°C (32°F), with just about four hours of daylight. Reykjavík becomes the focal point of unforgettable celebrations, featuring everything from fireworks and ice skating to exquisite holiday dining.
How Short Are Iceland’s Winter Days?
While the days may be brief, they are nothing short of spectacular. The winter solstice, occurring on December 21, marks the year’s shortest day, with only four hours of daylight in Reykjavík. The sun rises around 11:23 AM and sets by 3:30 PM. Yet, this limited daylight brings its own charm.
The sun, low on the horizon, creates a serene golden twilight that lingers throughout the day, offering dreamlike conditions for photographers and explorers alike. Despite the shorter days, there’s still ample opportunity for daytime adventures, while the extended nighttime enhances your chances of witnessing the Northern Lights. Festive Christmas lights further illuminate the dark, transforming it into a time of wonder rather than a challenge.
What About Iceland’s Winter Weather?
Iceland’s winter weather is notoriously unpredictable; a snowstorm can swiftly change to bright sunshine within moments. Fortunately, temperatures remain relatively mild for such a northern country, averaging around 0°C (32°F). Whether amidst snow-dusted landscapes or fleeting rainbows, the capricious weather adds an exciting element to your winter exploration. However, be prepared for occasional drops to -10°C (14°F).
Icelandic Christmas Traditions
Meet the Yule Lads
The holiday festivities in Iceland unfold over 26 days, beginning on December 11 with the arrival of the Yule Lads. These 13 playful yet endearing characters descend from the mountains, each boasting unique quirks that delight children. They leave small gifts in the shoes placed on windowsills—assuming the children have been well-behaved!
With names like Stekkjastaur (Sheepfold Stick), Hurðaskellir (Door Slammer), and Kertasníkir (Candle Beggar), the Yule Lads’ antics are as entertaining as their monikers suggest. For families, their presence adds a whimsical flair to the season. An excellent way to delve into Icelandic folklore is by visiting the Christmas Creatures exhibit at Reykjavík City Hall—an interactive showcase that brings the legends to life, making it a must-see for families and folklore enthusiasts alike.
Reykjavík, the Christmas City
During December, Reykjavík transforms into a festive spectacle. The city center sparkles with holiday spirit, featuring an ice-skating rink at Ingólfstorg Square where visitors can glide across the ice, warming up afterwards at nearby stands serving mulled wine and hot chocolate. For a deeper immersion into Icelandic traditions, a visit to the Árbær Open Air Museum offers hands-on activities, from candle making to cutting the traditional laufabrauð (leaf bread). Keep your eyes peeled for surprise visits from the Yule Lads!
In Þorláksme: A Unique Icelandic Celebration
On December 23, Icelanders celebrate Þorláksme, a day marked by frenzied shopping and the consumption of fermented skate (“skata”)—a delicacy that requires a fair dose of courage thanks to its potent ammonia aroma. For many locals, this day encapsulates the final preparations for Christmas, the streets bustling with an infectious festive energy.
Christmas Eve: Iceland’s Main Event
Christmas Eve represents the pinnacle of Icelandic holiday festivities. Families gather for an intimate dinner, often featuring festive fare like smoked lamb (hangikjöt) or ptarmigan. At 6:00 PM, the ringing of church bells signals the official start of Christmas, paving the way for gift exchanges and cozy family moments. A cherished tradition is the giving of books, aligning with Iceland’s beloved “Jólabókaflóð” (Christmas Book Flood)—there’s nothing quite like curling up with a good read as snow gently falls outside.
Explore Iceland’s Winter Wonders
Make the most of your winter break to uncover Iceland’s stunning landscapes. Hidden Iceland offers an array of private day tours, providing memorable experiences from discovering geothermal wonders to chasing the Northern Lights.
Our bespoke multi-day tours promise a luxurious, tailored exploration of Iceland. Carefully curated itineraries include premium accommodations and exclusive experiences like ice caving and geothermal bathing. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or a family expedition, our expert guides ensure every detail is perfectly executed, allowing you to focus on enjoying an unforgettable Christmas trip in Iceland.
New Year’s Eve in Iceland
New Year’s Eve in Iceland is a celebration like no other—a vibrant spectacle that begins with family dinners, followed by communal gatherings at bonfires (“brennur”) where friends and neighbors come together. At 10:30 PM, nearly every Icelander tunes in for the satirical Áramótaskaup Comedy show, a beloved tradition that playfully reviews the year’s events. Once the show concludes, the true festivities commence. As midnight approaches, Reykjavík’s skies erupt in a dazzling display of color from fireworks.
For optimal viewing, head to Hallgrímskirkja Church or Tjörnin Pond. Plus, purchasing fireworks contributes to the Icelandic Association for Search and Rescue, making your celebrations even more meaningful. Celebrating New Year’s in Reykjavík allows you to immerse yourself in this joyful atmosphere, exploring the charming Christmas markets, gliding across ice rinks, and indulging in lively local bars and restaurants—each a must when visiting the capital.
Festive Dining in Reykjavík
No Christmas itinerary in Iceland would be complete without sampling the culinary delights at some of the city’s finest restaurants. However, securing a table during this festive season requires early planning, as Reykjavík’s popular dining spots fill up quickly. Many establishments feature special holiday menus that highlight Icelandic delicacies with a seasonal twist. Here are a few recommendations:
- Tides: Enjoy delightful dinner menus during the holidays, complemented by festive drinks at their rooftop bar.
- Sumac Grill + Drinks: Experience a fusion of Icelandic ingredients with Moroccan and Lebanese influences.
- Fiskmarkaðurinn (Fish Market): Revel in standout Christmas menus and exclusive New Year’s Eve offerings, showcasing the best of Iceland’s seafood and culinary flavors.
Now that you’ve read through our guide to Christmas and New Year in Iceland, you’re one step closer to experiencing all the magic this season has to offer.
If you’re eager to uncover the enchanting charm of Iceland during the holidays or to celebrate New Year’s on a luxury getaway, contact us now at +354-770-5733 or reach out at info@hiddeniceland.is.
Let’s start crafting your unique Icelandic Christmas journey or New Year’s adventure in style.
I’m Dagný Björg, CEO and co-owner of Hidden Iceland. A Reykjavík native and adventure enthusiast, my connection to this breathtaking land runs deep, shaped by childhood summers spent camping across the country. Today, I pour that passion into crafting exceptional itineraries that celebrate the best of Iceland’s stunning landscapes.
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