Reykjavik: A Cozy Christmas Under the Northern Lights

Imagine Reykjavik, draped in a blanket of snow, twinkling with festive lights, and promising the ethereal dance of the Northern Lights. This is Christmas in Iceland, a unique blend of cozy traditions and breathtaking natural wonders.

Dazzling Reykjavik Aglow

As December descends, Reykjavik transforms into a winter wonderland, its streets aglow with Christmas lights and decorations. The anticipation builds as the city prepares for the lighting of the Oslo Christmas tree at Austurvöllur on December 1st, a gift symbolizing the enduring friendship between Reykjavik and Oslo. This event marks the official start of the Christmas season, filling the air with a sense of warmth and joy.

The heart of the Christmas spirit beats in the Christmas markets that pop up around the city. Ingólfstorg and Hafnartorg host charming markets offering a variety of goods, from handcrafted Icelandic woolens to unique volcanic stone jewelry and traditional Christmas ornaments. The scent of roasted almonds and mulled wine wafts through the air, mingling with the sound of live Christmas carols, creating an immersive sensory experience. These markets provide a perfect opportunity to find unique gifts and soak in the festive atmosphere.

The Jólakvosin market in the Kvosin district is another must-visit, offering a wide array of Icelandic goods, including handmade jewelry, ceramics, and traditional wool items. The Lækjartorg Market is another option to explore, tempting visitors with the aromas of Icelandic Christmas food. For a more extensive experience, the Christmas Village in Hafnarfjörður, a short bus ride from Reykjavik, offers live entertainment and Christmas houses selling Icelandic crafts, artwork, and seasonal treats.

Local Tip: Visit the Christmas markets in the early afternoon to avoid the evening crowds and enjoy a more relaxed shopping experience.

Yule Lads Are Coming to Town

Icelandic Christmas traditions are steeped in folklore, with the 13 Yule Lads taking center stage. These mischievous characters, sons of the trolls Grýla and Leppalúði, arrive one by one in the 13 days leading up to Christmas. Each night, children place their shoes by the window, hoping to receive a gift from the Yule Lad who has come to town. Naughty children, however, might find a potato in their shoe instead.

Each Yule Lad has his own unique personality and penchant for mischief. Stekkjarstaur (Sheep-Cote Clod) is known for harassing sheep, while Kertasníkir (Candle-Stealer) has a fondness for snatching candles. Other notable Yule Lads include Giljagaur (Gully Gawk), Stúfur (Stubby), Þvörusleikir (Spoon-Licker), and Pottasleikir (Pot-Scraper).

Adding to the festive fright is the Christmas Cat, a giant feline who, according to legend, devours those who don't receive new clothes for Christmas. This quirky tradition encourages everyone to be well-dressed for the holidays.

The Yule season concludes on January 6th, known as Þrettándinn (the Thirteenth), with bonfires lit throughout the country to bid farewell to the Yule Lads, elves, and trolls. This celebration marks the end of the Christmas festivities, with Icelanders dancing and celebrating before saying goodbye to the magical creatures until the next year.

Hidden Gem: Learn about each Yule Lad's unique characteristics and stories at the Árbær Open Air Museum, where they often make appearances during the Christmas season.

Savoring Icelandic Christmas Flavors

Christmas in Iceland is a culinary adventure, with traditional dishes taking center stage. Hangikjöt, smoked lamb, is a staple of the Icelandic Christmas feast, its smoky flavor a comforting reminder of the season. Laufabrauð, or leaf bread, is another must-try, a thin, crispy bread adorned with intricate geometric patterns, fried and served with butter.

Other popular Christmas dishes include ptarmigan, a game bird, hamborgarhryggur, a glazed ham, and marinated herring. Þorláksmessa (St. Thorlak's Day) on December 23rd is a day dedicated to the patron saint of Iceland, Thorlak Thorhallsson, and is traditionally marked by eating fermented skate, a dish with a pungent aroma that is definitely an acquired taste.

No Icelandic Christmas is complete without traditional Christmas cookies like piparkökur, or ginger snaps. These spiced cookies are often decorated with colorful glaze, adding a touch of sweetness to the festive season.

Local Tip: Sample different varieties of Laufabrauð at the Christmas markets to find your favorite style and pattern.

Chasing the Northern Lights

One of the most magical aspects of Christmas in Reykjavik is the opportunity to witness the Northern Lights dancing across the winter sky. The peak viewing season runs from September to April, with the darkest months offering the best chances of seeing this celestial display. To maximize your chances, seek out darkness and clear skies, venturing away from the city lights.

Several locations near Reykjavik offer excellent viewing opportunities. Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, provides a stunning backdrop for the aurora, its vast landscapes offering unobstructed views. The Reykjanes Peninsula, particularly near Kleifarvatn Lake, is another great option, with its dark skies and dramatic scenery. Grótta Lighthouse, located on the tip of the Seltjarnarnes Peninsula, is also a popular spot, offering minimal light pollution and stunning views of the coastline.

Before heading out, be sure to check the aurora forecast, which predicts the likelihood of seeing the Northern Lights. Consider joining a guided tour, as experienced guides can take you to the best viewing locations and provide valuable insights into the aurora phenomenon.

Hidden Gem: For a unique experience, consider a boat tour from Reykjavik harbor, offering the chance to see the Northern Lights reflected on the water.

Cozy Christmas Activities

Reykjavik offers a variety of cozy activities to enhance your Christmas experience. Ice skating at Ingólfstorg Square is a delightful way to embrace the winter spirit, gliding across the ice while surrounded by festive lights and Christmas music. Visiting the Christmas markets is another must-do, offering opportunities to shop for unique gifts, sample traditional treats, and soak in the holiday atmosphere.

Attending Christmas concerts at Hallgrímskirkja Church is a truly special experience, the church's soaring architecture and stunning acoustics creating a magical setting for festive music. The Árbær Open Air Museum offers a glimpse into traditional Icelandic Christmas customs, with demonstrations of crafts, food preparation, and Yule Lad appearances. The Christmas Village in Hafnarfjörður is another option to explore.

Local Tip: Check the schedule for Christmas concerts at Hallgrímskirkja Church in advance, as they are very popular and tickets sell out quickly.

From the dazzling lights to the mischievous Yule Lads, the savory flavors to the ethereal Northern Lights, Reykjavik offers a Christmas experience unlike any other. It's a time to embrace the cozy traditions, marvel at the natural wonders, and create lasting memories in this magical winter wonderland.