How do Icelanders celebrate New years?
How do Icelanders celebrate New Years? | Insight information from a local
How Icelanders Celebrate New Year's: Bonfires, Fireworks, and The TV Show Everyone Watches
New Year’s Eve in Iceland is a celebration like no other, and if you’ve ever had the privilege of ringing in the new year here, you’ll know it’s all about community, spectacle, and tradition. While other countries might count down the minutes in a bustling square or party till dawn in nightclubs, Icelanders have their own unique way of welcoming the new year, and it involves massive bonfires, a dazzling fireworks display, and a TV show that nearly the entire population watches. Let’s dive into what makes Icelandic New Year's so special!
The Bonfires (Brenna)
The first highlight of New Year’s Eve is the bonfires, or brenna, that light up towns and villages across the country. This Icelandic tradition has deep historical roots, dating back to ancient times when bonfires were thought to ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune for the coming year. Nowadays, it’s more of a social event, but the magical atmosphere remains.
The bonfires are often organized by local communities, with groups of friends and families gathering around the warmth and glow. There’s a sense of togetherness as people from all walks of life stand around the fire, chatting, drinking hot chocolate, and reflecting on the year that’s passed. You’ll hear people singing, joking, and sometimes even telling stories or playing music, making the bonfire a perfect mix of tradition and fun. In larger cities like Reykjavik, the bonfires can get quite spectacular, with enormous piles of wood stacked high and flames that seem to reach for the sky. It’s a moment to slow down, enjoy the present, and appreciate the people around you before the big celebration at midnight.
Curious where you can find your nearest "Brenna" in Reykjavík? Click here to find out!
Fireworks at Midnight
Once the bonfires have burned out and the evening draws closer to midnight, the real spectacle begins: fireworks! Icelanders love their fireworks, and this tradition has grown bigger every year. While many countries reserve their firework shows for official displays, in Iceland, nearly everyone takes part in the fun. It’s not uncommon to see families or groups of friends walking around with bags full of fireworks, ready to light up the sky.
At exactly 12:00 AM, the entire country seems to erupt in a symphony of colors, lights, and sounds. From Reykjavik’s city center to the smallest villages, Iceland is illuminated by thousands of fireworks exploding in every direction. The sky becomes a canvas of vivid reds, blues, greens, and golds, as people gather in their neighborhoods to celebrate. It’s truly a magical experience to witness — a chaotic yet beautiful display that symbolizes hope, joy, and new beginnings. And the best part? Since fireworks are sold to the public in Iceland only for a few days around the new year, the whole thing feels like a giant community event, with everyone joining in.
Insight tip: We highly recommend going to Perlan (That big giant glass building on the hill) to have a full 360 display of the fireworks at midnight.
The TV Show – “Áramótaskaupið”
And then, there’s the most Icelandic tradition of all: the annual TV special, Áramótaskaupið. This satirical show has been airing every New Year’s Eve since 1966, and it’s considered absolutely essential viewing for nearly every Icelander. In fact, it's estimated that upwards of 99% of the population tunes in to watch it!
Áramótaskaupið is a parody show that takes a humorous look at the events of the past year, from politics and celebrity gossip to Icelandic culture and global happenings. With sharp wit and sometimes hilarious impersonations, it pokes fun at the biggest stories, bringing laughter to the entire country. It’s a way for Icelanders to laugh together, reflect on the highs and lows of the year, and bond as a nation. The show is often followed by a variety of skits, musical performances, and lighthearted comedy. And since it’s broadcast at 10:30 PM, it fits perfectly between the bonfires and the fireworks, allowing everyone to enjoy a good laugh before the midnight celebrations begin.
Insight tip: Worried you wont understand the show? Don't worry, you can watch it with subtitles. Find an Icelander to help you out with setting it up at your hotel! The show is broadcasted on RUV, which is free and should be included at your hotel.
New Year’s Day Dip at Nauthólsvík (1.january)
What about the first day of the year? Any fun traditions there? Oh yes!
If you think New Year’s Eve is wild, wait until you see how Icelanders kick off the first day of the new year! On January 1st, a daring group of around 300 brave souls gathers at Nauthólsvík beach in Reykjavik for one of the country’s most unique traditions: a dip in the freezing cold water. Despite the icy temperatures and the winter chill, people gather at this geothermally heated beach to take a refreshing plunge into the frigid Atlantic. Some swim for just a few seconds, others stay in for a bit longer, but all of them are greeted by the kind of exhilaration that only a cold-water dip can provide.
It’s a tradition that might seem insane to some, but for Icelanders, it’s a perfect way to start the year — cleansing the body and soul, and symbolizing a fresh start. The event is always full of energy and excitement. If you want to check it out, it usually starts at 12:00pm.
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