New Year's Eve in Iceland

In brittle Iceland, ice and fire meet. The island in the far north is characterized by untamed, fascinating nature. Nevertheless, it lies below the Arctic Circle, which means that it can be milder in winter than in Munich, for example. Iceland's landscape is unique and romantic at the same time: steep cliffs, deep gorges, large glaciers, huge waterfalls, black sand beaches, bubbling volcanoes and boiling geysers characterize the island.

But what does a traditional New Year's Eve in Iceland look like?

New Year's Eve in Reykjavik

Reykjavik is the northernmost capital and you are immersed in a diverse and cultural city unlike any other. The adventurous wilderness, creative architectures, a modern and international music scene and excellent gastronomy are just some of the many facts to tell about this city. 

In Reykjavik on New Year's Eve northern lights are almost guaranteed, which definitely should not be missed and which provide a perfect background for the fireworks in the Icelandic capital, one of the largest fireworks displays in Europe.

Before the fireworks, stroll around the old town (Vesturgata) or the old harbor (Gamla höfn) and enjoy an excellent New Year's Eve dinner, then watch the New Year's Eve fire with friends and family.

Traditionally, people gather around the so-called "Brenna", a large fire that is lit throughout the country. This provides with the landscape a beautiful atmosphere and a communal environment is created where everyone comes together to make new resolutions and plans for the next year.

Northern Lights

When the sky is clear, the northern lights also appear. The play of colors is sensational and can only be seen in the winter months when the nights are longer and the days shorter.

After the campfire, many Icelanders head home because the TV program "Áramótaskaup" is on at around 10:30 pm. A humorous review of the year is shown there, parodying Iceland's political and cultural developments. 

Fireworks

Then begins the bombastic fireworks, which is internationally famous for its duration and intensity. 

Hundreds of millions of Icelandic crowns are spent annually on this event. After the spectacle, immerse yourself in Reykjavik's famous nightlife, which bubbles as hot as the geysers. This is supported by various live bands that play until the morning.

Additional activities

In addition, you can add numerous activities to your stay: Cross-country skiing in the snowy landscape, visiting natural hot springs, special off-road tours with jeeps to view waterfalls and geysers that extend throughout the country or a ride on the famous Icelandic ponies.

There are endless possibilities to extend your trip to Iceland for New Year's Eve.

You don't have to be afraid of freezing cold, because the Gulf Stream gives the island a climate that is rather unusual for these latitudes. 

So spend a few days in Iceland to experience this unforgettable spectacle and a first-class New Year's Eve! If you want to learn even more about Iceland and its culture, history or facts, visit us at our Website. Or beech with us directly an unforgettable 9 day trip with our local guide and Iceland expert.