Meander through the decorated streets, and the holiday fervour is palpable. Wreaths hang heavy with berries on front doors and delicate paper cutouts of snowflakes dangle from ceilings. Fragrant Christmas trees are bedecked in wooden angels and white candles. In this northern reach of the globe frigid temperatures are a given but in Reykjavik a dusting of snow on the colourful rooftops and bright-red mailboxes only adds to the allure.
The wonderful Christmas lights are everywhere - in the streets, adorning windows, on balconies and covering gardens. The city also plays host to numerous concerts and choirs and there seems to be something musical happening on every street corner.
 Christmas and New Year are a chance for Icelandic families to spend time together at home. Surrounding the quiet family celebrations are many delightful traditions and customs that visitors too may enjoy. In the 13 days before Christmas, the 13 Christmas ‘Lads’, known locally as the ‘Jolasveinar’ come down from the hills to make mischief in the towns and villages – perhaps you will encounter one of them! Visitors with children should make note – leave a shoe in the window overnight and hopefully, the ‘Lad’ of the day will leave a small gift.
Reykjavik is a city known for its fine dining and during the festive season, many restaurants offer exceptional menus making the most of top quality Icelandic produce – however availability is understandably limited and if you wish to make a reservation in advance, or would like some restaurant recommendations, please give our team a call. On a more traditional note, be sure to taste ‘Laufabraud’, a tasty side dish similar to ‘poppadoms’, traditionally prepared by all the family and highly addictive!
Be part of the Icelandic celebrations this year and let Discover the World transport you to a land of magic, mystery and myrrh.
Prices in December from £763 per person |
Iceland during Christmas is a wonderful time of glowing candles ,festive music and delicious meals. It is also a time set aside for families to enjoy traditions together
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