By Chris Ayliffe, Arctic Meta
If you’re dreaming of a truly magical Christmas, Iceland should be at the top of your list.
The holiday season here isn’t just about twinkling lights and snow-dusted rooftops, though you’ll find plenty of those. Christmas in Iceland is a rich tapestry of ancient traditions, folklore, and culinary delights that come together to create an unforgettable festive experience.
In this travel blog, we’ll take you on a journey through Iceland’s unique Christmas customs, from mischievous Yule Lads to lavish feasts, and explain why this island transforms into a winter wonderland like no other during the holiday season.
The Festive Spirit: A Season of Lights and Decorations
Iceland is known for its long, dark winters, but come Christmastime, the country transforms into a dazzling display of light and colour.
Extravagent Christmas Lights
Why do Icelanders go all out with their Christmas lights? It’s more than just holiday cheer – it’s a way to combat the darkness of the winter months.
As the sun barely rises during December, bright lights help lift the spirits and bring warmth to the season.
Homes, businesses, and even entire towns participate in creating intricate displays that range from elegant icicle lights to whimsical, over-the-top designs.
Walking through Iceland’s cities and villages feels like stepping into a fairy tale. You’ll even be struck by how coordinated they are (or perhaps there was just a big discount at IKEA on the same day!)
Iceland’s capital, Reykjavík, leads the way with impressive displays. Streets and squares are adorned with shimmering lights, and shop windows are filled with festive decorations that reflect Icelandic culture, from Viking-inspired motifs to modern Christmas trees.
In small towns and villages, the local communities come together to create smaller, but no less enchanting, Christmas light displays – they can often make a nice festive backdrop to your Aurora photography.
Famous Displays
Some neighbourhoods and landmarks are especially famous for their festive lights.
Reykjavík’s main shopping street, Laugavegur, glimmers with illuminated decorations, while the capital’s Christmas tree in Austurvöllur Square stands as a beacon of holiday cheer.
Local municipalities often hold tree lighting ceremonies, marking the start of the Christmas season, and Icelandic families typically join in by decorating their homes with garlands and candles, creating a magical glow that fills the long nights.
Iceland’s Unique Holiday Traditions
The Jóladagatal (Advent Calendar)
The countdown to Christmas is marked with special Advent calendars, often filled with chocolates or small surprises.
For families, it’s a way to build excitement and enjoy the holiday spirit every day of December.
The tradition of giving Advent calendars started in Iceland in the 19th century, and today, you’ll find a range of quirky, creative Advent calendars on the market – from the classic chocolate-filled versions to ones filled with small toys, puzzles, or even miniature bottles of local Icelandic schnapps (this will put hairs on your chest, for sure!)
A Treat for Every Day
The Icelandic Advent calendar is often a fun family tradition.
Children eagerly anticipate each day’s treat, while adults may use it as an opportunity to indulge in their favourite Christmas chocolates.
Whether it’s a small toy or a sweet treat, the countdown serves as a reminder of the warmth and togetherness that comes with the holiday season.
The Jólagjafir Tradition (Christmas Gifts)
A heartwarming Icelandic tradition is exchanging practical gifts like clothing.
This practice has roots in folklore – anyone who doesn’t receive new clothes by Christmas risks being devoured by the Jólakötturinn, or Christmas Cat.
But don’t worry, the intent behind this tradition is less about fear and more about showing care by ensuring everyone stays warm through the harsh winter.
In fact, Icelanders are renowned for their thoughtful and often practical gift-giving.
Cozy knitted wool sweaters, soft scarves, and handmade mittens are popular gifts. Many locals take pride in giving something useful, while still keeping it personal and meaningful.
The Christmas Cat (Jólakötturinn)
Speaking of the Christmas Cat, this legendary creature plays a big role in Icelandic Christmas folklore.
A massive and terrifying feline, the Jólakötturinn prowls the snowy countryside looking for those who haven’t received new clothes.
Its myth is tied to Iceland’s emphasis on wool production and the value of hard work during the holidays.
It was once believed that the Jólakötturinn’s appetite was insatiable, and it could devour anyone who wasn’t prepared for winter’s chill.
While the legend of the Christmas Cat is now more of a fun and playful tale, it serves as a reminder of the importance of community and the value of hard work in Icelandic culture.
To this day, wool sweaters and mittens are essential in Icelandic households and are often the focus of gift-giving, helping to ensure no one ends up on the wrong side of the Christmas Cat!
Meet the Yule Lads: Iceland’s Mischievous Christmas Figures
Forget Santa Claus – here in Iceland, it’s the Yule Lads who steal the spotlight.
Who Are the Yule Lads?
The Yule Lads are 13 mischievous brothers who visit Icelandic children during the 13 days leading up to Christmas.
Each night, one Lad comes down from the mountains to leave small gifts (or potatoes for misbehaving kids) in shoes placed on windowsills.
The Yule Lads are the children of the fearsome troll Grýla and her lazy husband Leppalúði.
These figures have their roots in ancient Icelandic folklore, and though the Yule Lads can be a bit cheeky or even troublesome, they are ultimately part of the fun and whimsy of the Icelandic Christmas experience.
A Lad for Every Night
Each Yule Lad has a distinct personality, ranging from the playful to the downright troublesome.
There’s Door-Slammer, who startles households late at night, and Spoon-Licker, who loves to sneak into kitchens for a taste of leftovers. Others like Pot-Scraper and Skyr-Gobbler are also notorious for causing mischief.
As you can tell by the names, the roots of these stories are from Iceland’s more austere past. In fact, it was only really in the past 50-60 years that Iceland started to flourish economically.
Despite their antics, the Yule Lads are beloved figures in Icelandic culture.
Children eagerly anticipate their visits, and families enjoy the playful atmosphere they bring. The Yule Lads’ pranks are considered harmless fun and are a source of joy and laughter during the long winter nights.
The Troll Family
The Lads aren’t alone – they’re the sons of Grýla, a fearsome troll who kidnaps naughty children, and her lazy husband Leppalúði.
The entire family is deeply rooted in Icelandic folklore, adding a quirky charm to the holiday season.
Grýla, in particular, was historically depicted as a monstrous creature who would carry away bad children to her cave.
Fortunately, these days she’s more of a mythological figure than a threat, though her legend continues to add a thrilling touch of mystery to the season.
Christmas in Icelandic Workplaces
Icelandic businesses know how to spread holiday cheer.
One notable tradition is that pretty much all companies give gifts to their employees.
From gift cards to thoughtful tokens of appreciation or even just extra cash, this practice reinforces the country’s sense of community and goodwill.
In the workplace, Christmas parties and gatherings are common, where colleagues come together to enjoy traditional food, exchange gifts, and raise a glass of wine or a local craft beer – this is a common time of year to here the local toasting SKÁL (cheers) in regular intervals to welcome the festive period.
The festive atmosphere in offices and workspaces helps foster a strong sense of camaraderie and togetherness, adding to the holiday magic.
Food and Feasting: The Heart of Icelandic Christmas
If there’s one thing Icelanders take seriously during the holidays, it’s food. The centrepiece of Christmas celebrations is the Jólahlaðborð, or Christmas buffet.
Traditional Dishes
Expect a feast of traditional dishes such as smoked lamb (hangikjöt), pickled red cabbage, and leaf bread (laufabrauð), a beautifully decorated flatbread.
For dessert, treats like the layered marzipan cake vínarterta and Sarah Bernhardt cookies steal the show.
Christmas dinner is an event that’s prepared with great care and tradition.
Icelandic families often take pride in passing down recipes through generations, ensuring that the flavours of Christmas remain unchanged for decades.
And, particularly if you’re from a country such as the US or UK, it’s worth noting that Christmas is mainly celebrated after the turn of 6pm on December 24th where the first family meals take place.
If you listen with an open ear in Reykjavík at 6pm you’ll hear the chime of the Christmas bells around the city.
The Importance of Feasting
Icelandic Christmas meals are about more than just satisfying hunger – they’re a way to connect with loved ones and honour the country’s culinary heritage.
After a hearty meal, many Icelanders gather around the table for stories, songs, and games.
There’s something special about sharing a meal in such an intimate, cozy setting, making the holiday season even more memorable.
Icelandic Christmas Drinks
No Christmas feast is complete without a toast. Icelanders have their own unique holiday beverages to enjoy.
Many families serve jólaöl, a traditional Christmas beer that’s rich, malty, and perfect for the season.
Additionally, sviðasúpa, a hearty lamb head soup, is a favourite among those who want to experience an authentic Icelandic Christmas meal.
Snowy Scenes: Will There Be a White Christmas?
What’s Christmas without snow? In Iceland, the chances of a white Christmas are pretty high.
With its Arctic climate, the island often sees snowfall during December, creating a postcard-perfect holiday atmosphere. However, it is not guaranteed.
Dreamy Winter Landscapes
The combination of snow-covered mountains, frozen waterfalls, and glittering lights makes Iceland a dream destination for those seeking a classic winter wonderland retreat over the Christmas period.
Exploring the natural beauty of Iceland during the holiday season is an adventure in itself, whether you’re trekking through snow-covered forests or soaking in hot springs while surrounded by snowflakes.
The beauty of Icelandic winter is beyond compare.
The Þrettándinn: Closing the Festive Season
Christmas in Iceland doesn’t end on December 25th.
The Icelandic holiday season culminates with Þrettándinn (pronounced thret-tan-thinn), or the “Thirteenth Night,” which takes place on January 6th. This day holds deep cultural significance and is the traditional end of the Christmas celebrations.
Although most of the world wraps up their festivities after New Year’s Day, Icelanders continue to celebrate until this magical final night.
This means….yeah you guessed it…an extension of the fireworks displays in Iceland for many days after the turn of the New Year – even often during the day!
The Significance of Þrettándinn
Þrettándinn, or “Twelfth Night” in some cultures, marks the end of the Christmas period, but it also signals the beginning of the new year and a fresh chapter in Icelandic life.
This event is tied to both the Christian calendar and the island’s pagan traditions, and it is a time when Icelanders believe that magical beings (especially elves and hidden folk) are most active.
In fact, many Icelandic families take part in traditions that link the Þrettándinn to ancient beliefs about the supernatural and the changing of seasons.
The Þrettándinn coincides with the Feast of the Epiphany in Christianity, commemorating the visit of the Three Wise Men to the infant Jesus.
While the religious aspect plays a role, for Icelanders, the day has a far more playful and folkloric tone, which includes the departure of the Yule Lads and a final celebration before the hustle and bustle of everyday life resumes.
The Yule Lads’ Farewell
One of the central features of Þrettándinn is the departure of the Yule Lads.
Over the 13 days leading up to Christmas, the mischievous brothers visit children across the country, leaving small gifts or potatoes (for those who’ve misbehaved).
However, on the night of January 6th, the Yule Lads return to their caves in the mountains, signalling the end of the Christmas season.
For many Icelandic children, this marks the return to normality, as the magical visitors leave and the world goes back to its routine. The Yule Lads’ final departure is often marked with festivities and is part of the larger cultural embrace of this magical night.
While the Yule Lads are central to the Þrettándinn, their departure isn’t somber – it’s filled with celebration.
Many Icelanders participate in large bonfire gatherings and public festivals to mark this day.
Bonfires and Fireworks
A major tradition on Þrettándinn is the lighting of bonfires, or brenna, in many towns and villages across Iceland.
These bonfires symbolise the final release of the Christmas spirits, casting away the darkness of winter and welcoming the coming light of the new year.
It’s a communal event where friends and families gather to sing, share stories, and celebrate together. Bonfires have deep roots in Icelandic history, harking back to ancient times when fire was believed to ward off evil spirits and dark forces.
In Reykjavík, there is a large bonfire at Öskjuhlíð Hill, and other parts of the city join in the festivities with fireworks, music, and dancing.
As the bonfires burn into the night, the community atmosphere is electric – marking both the end of the holiday season and the start of a fresh year.
The use of fireworks on Þrettándinn is also a tradition that adds a modern touch to the old customs.
Icelanders set off fireworks to celebrate the end of the Christmas period, with the displays often being larger and more extravagant than those on New Year’s Eve.
It’s a time of joy and celebration, where everyone joins in to light up the sky.
The End of the Christmas Feast
Þrettándinn also marks the final day of the Christmas feast.
Icelanders enjoy a final meal of traditional Christmas dishes like smoked lamb (hangikjöt), pickled cabbage, and a variety of sweet treats.
This meal serves as a final indulgence before life returns to its usual rhythm. After the feasts, families often take down their Christmas decorations and pack away the ornaments for the next year.
Another special tradition on the Thirteenth Night is the burning of the Yule Tree.
Many families and communities light a small fire where they burn their Christmas trees and decorations.
This is another way to bid farewell to the holiday season and let go of the old year, welcoming in the new with a sense of closure and anticipation.
Celebrating with Songs and Stories
An important part of the Þrettándinn festivities is the gathering of friends and family to tell stories, sing traditional songs, and enjoy one last festive evening before the return to normal life.
This tradition helps to preserve Iceland’s rich folklore and ensures that the holiday spirit lingers well beyond the official end of Christmas.
Singing songs about the Yule Lads or stories of elves and hidden people is common, and the stories often serve as a reminder of the magic that exists in Icelandic culture.
The Legacy of Þrettándinn
For many Icelanders, Þrettándinn is not just a closing of the holiday season – it’s an important part of Icelandic identity.
The day embraces the country’s unique blend of Christian customs and ancient Norse traditions, helping Icelanders maintain a connection to their cultural roots.
As a holiday that is shared with close friends, families, and communities, it also serves to foster a sense of togetherness.
This makes it one of the most beloved holidays in Iceland, enjoyed by people of all ages, and it offers a final opportunity to bask in the festive magic before everyday life returns to its routine.
Planning Your Christmas Activities
It’s worth noting that many attractions and services adjust their hours or close entirely during Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. If you’re planning to explore or dine out, it’s essential to keep these tips in mind:
1. Attractions and Stores:
On December 24th (Christmas Eve), most shops and attractions close by noon, so it’s best to plan your sightseeing or shopping early in the day. On December 25th (Christmas Day), the majority of places remain closed all day.
2. Dining Out:
Restaurants follow the same schedule, with many closing early on the 24th and staying closed through the 25th. Some establishments might offer special Christmas Eve dinners, but these typically require advance booking and may come with a festive set menu.
3. Stock Up in Advance:
If you’re staying at the lodge, consider stocking up on groceries and essentials well ahead of time. Preparing a cozy Christmas meal at your lodge, surrounded by Iceland’s winter wonderland, can be a unique and intimate way to celebrate the holiday.
Conclusion: Why Iceland is the Perfect Place for Christmas
From ancient folklore to modern traditions, Iceland’s Christmas season is a celebration like no other. Whether it’s the twinkling lights, the mouthwatering feasts, or the charm of the Yule Lads, there’s something here for everyone to fall in love with.
So why not experience it for yourself? Let Iceland’s magic fill your heart this holiday season, and you might just create memories to last a lifetime.