The Magic of Traditional Christmas Festivities in Iceland

Iceland, the land of fire and ice, takes on an enchanting aura during Christmastime. 

The country’s unique blend of ancient folklore, wintery landscapes, and warm community spirit makes Christmas in Iceland a truly magical experience. 

Here’s a closer look at how Icelanders celebrate this cherished season, filled with traditions that reflect their rich cultural heritage.

Advent and Festive Preparations

The Icelandic Christmas season begins with Advent, marked by the lighting of candles on an Advent wreath. Each Sunday leading up to Christmas, one more candle is lit, symbolising hope and the anticipation of brighter days during the long winter nights.

Icelanders also take great pride in decorating their homes with twinkling lights, stars, and Christmas ornaments. These adornments bring warmth and cheer to the dark December days. Traditional Christmas plants, like poinsettias and amaryllis, are popular decorations. Families often bake Christmas biscuits and cakes, filling their homes with the comforting aroma of cinnamon, cloves, and ginger.

The Yule Lads: Mischievous and Magical

One of the most beloved aspects of Icelandic Christmas folklore is the Yule Lads, a group of 13 mischievous characters who visit children in the 13 days leading up to Christmas. Each night, children leave a shoe on their windowsill. If they’ve been good, the Yule Lad of the day leaves a small gift, such as sweets or toys. If they’ve been naughty, they might find a potato instead!

The Yule Lads, with names like Spoon-Licker, Door-Slammer, and Candle-Stealer, have their origins in Iceland’s pagan past. Today, they bring a sense of whimsy and excitement to the season.

Jólaöldur and Christmas Eve

As Christmas Eve approaches, the festivities ramp up. On 23 December, Icelanders celebrate Þorláksmessa (St. Þorlákur’s Mass), honouring the country’s patron saint. It’s traditional to eat fermented skate on this day—a delicacy that has a strong smell but is a favourite for many.

Christmas Eve, or Aðfangadagur, is the heart of the Christmas season. Families gather in the evening for a grand feast, often featuring roast lamb, ptarmigan, or smoked pork. Dessert might include laufabrauð, a crisp, intricately decorated flatbread. 

At 6 pm, the church bells ring across the country, marking the official start of Christmas. After dinner, gifts are exchanged, and families spend the evening together, reading books and enjoying one another’s company.

Books and Cosy Nights: The Joy of Jólabókaflóð

One of Iceland’s most cherished Christmas traditions is the Jólabókaflóð, or “Christmas Book Flood.” Books are a popular gift, and families exchange them on Christmas Eve.

It’s customary to spend the night reading by the fire, often accompanied by a cup of hot chocolate. This tradition reflects Icelanders’ deep love for literature and the cosy spirit of the season.

New Year’s and Epiphany

The festive season doesn’t end with Christmas. Icelanders celebrate New Year’s Eve with spectacular fireworks displays that light up the dark winter skies. Families and friends gather for feasts and festivities, often lasting until the early hours of the morning.

The season concludes on 6 January with Þrettándinn (Epiphany). This day is steeped in folklore, with bonfires, elfin dances, and tales of mythical creatures making an appearance. It’s a fitting end to a season filled with magic and wonder.

Final notes

Iceland’s Christmas traditions are a delightful blend of ancient customs and modern celebrations, infused with warmth and charm. From the playful antics of the Yule Lads to the heartfelt tradition of sharing books, Icelandic Christmas is a time of togetherness, storytelling, and joy. If you ever have the chance to visit during this season, you’ll find yourself enchanted by the country’s festive spirit—and perhaps even leave with a new appreciation for the magic of Christmas.

Let this year’s festive season be an inspiration to embrace a slower, more meaningful celebration, Icelandic style!