Why Reykjavík Should Be Your New Year’s Eve Destination

Illuminated by the shimmering Northern Lights, Iceland’s breathtaking beauty never fails to captivate visitors and residents alike. Come New Year and you’ll see a whole new side to the Land of Fire and Ice as bonfires are conjured and fireworks dazzle. With vibrant cultural traditions in a winter wonderland, the Icelandic New Year experience is unparalleled, and New Year’s Eve in Reykjavík stands out as a celebration like no other. 

In this blog, we have covered all the information you need to celebrate in Icelandic style!

Facts About New Year’s Eve in Iceland

Discover the unique traditions and quirky customs that make this event in Iceland an unforgettable celebration.

 

• Bonfires to celebrate (Áramótabrennur) have been held in Reykjavík for over 200 years!

• Most fireworks are sold by ICE-SAR, making it a spectacular fundraiser for Iceland’s search and rescue teams.

• Reykjavík’s fireworks display is funded by the people, not the town.

• Remember to say Skál (cheers) during your midnight toast!

How do Icelanders spend New Year's Eve?

Be it Reykjavík or a countryside village in Iceland, locals follow a typical routine on the 31st of December. Following dinner with friends and family around 6 or 7 p.m., they will gather at the nearest bonfire by 8 o’clock to light some fireworks. At 10:30 p.m., there is a comedy TV show that throws a flashback to the year past. Icelanders will go home in time to watch this but will head out again for midnight fireworks. They then spend the night partying in bars, pubs, or friends’ houses.

Ways to Celebrate New Year’s in Reykjavík 

Are you ready to ring in the New Year in Iceland? Here are the top things you can do to have a magical holiday in the Land of Fire and Ice when the ball drops!

 

Reykjavík’s Fireworks Extravaganza

Throughout the country, the New Year’s Eve countdown is marked by an incredible display of fireworks. Icelanders often go to their nearest street corner but there are also popular locations such as Hallgrímskirkja and Oskjuhlid Hill in Perlan, one of Reykjavík's stunning landmark buildings, to watch fireworks. Fireworks reflected in Reykjavík’s Lake Tjörnin will leave you spellbound!

Icelanders support their local search and rescue teams which rely heavily upon fireworks and Christmas tree sales for funding. Did you know that 1.7% of the population in Iceland is a volunteer for the Icelandic Association for Search and Rescue (ICE-SAR)?

Catch New Year’s Eve fireworks aboard the Amelia Rose on an evening yacht cruise. Watch how the colourful Reykjavík sky gets reflected in the blue Arctic waters. 

Bonfires in Reykjavík

Organising bonfires is a common tradition in Iceland during the New Year’s celebrations. Local towns and communities start bonfires around 8 o’clock with an aim to finish before 10 p.m. so people can go home to watch the annual comedy show on TV. One of the largest bonfires is in Reykjavík’s Aegissida street near the seaside. You will see people dressed up in costumes featuring funny hats and glitter makeup. 

Cosy up by the fire and share stories with locals. 

 

 

Áramótaskaup – The Annual Comedy Show

Translating to the New Year’s Spoof, the annual comedy show known as Áramótaskaup is a rave among Icelanders. No one is spared in this 50-minute TV program where Icelanders poke fun at themselves.  There are also multiple sketches chronicling the events of the year. Favourite sketches are a conversation starter amongst Icelanders.

If you would like a glimpse into Iceland’s culture, politics, and sense of humour, Áramótaskaup is a must-watch!

Icelandic New Year’s Eve Party

New Year’s Eve parties in Iceland take fine dining to another level. Join the Hotel Reykjavik Grand family for your own New Year's Eve celebration. Our festivities come with refreshing drinks, an indulgent Gala dinner buffet, savory canapés, and a champagne toast, Hotel Reykjavík Grand’s New Year’s Eve Gala. 

Have you heard of Iceland’s national drink Brennivín? It’s a must-try while you’re celebrating in Iceland!

Iceland New Year’s in the Countryside

Celebrations are more or less the same throughout Iceland, the only thing to bear in mind if you want to explore areas outside Reykjavík is that fewer bars will be open after midnight. Typically, people spend the evening with family and go out dancing around midnight. You can check with the locals about New Year’s parties or concerts you can attend. But if you want to escape the crowds and spend it with your partner or family in a winter cabin, we wouldn’t blame you. New Year’s is a perfect time to cosy up in a hot tub with some warming cocoa and watch the stars as the fire crackles in the background.

New Year’s Eve Tours and Activities in Iceland

Ring in the New Year in Reykjavík and make the most of your visit by embracing Iceland's stunning winter landscapes. From chasing the Northern Lights to relaxing in geothermal pools, here are some unforgettable tours and experiences to enjoy during the New Year season:

• Golden Circle and Northern Lights Tour
  Discover Iceland's most iconic sights, including Gullfoss waterfall, the Geysir geothermal area, and Þingvellir National Park. During winter, many tours also include a chance to spot the magical Northern Lights in the dramatic countryside surrounding the capital.

• Northern Lights Tours from Reykjavík
  Head out from the city on a guided tour to chase the elusive Northern Lights. With expert guidance, you'll find the best locations for viewing and get tips on capturing stunning photos of the dazzling green and purple skies.

• South Coast Adventure
  Explore Iceland’s south shore, where you’ll encounter snow-dusted mountains, icy glaciers, and glistening black-sand beaches. Join a guided tour for a safe and comfortable way to experience this region in winter's more unpredictable road conditions.

• Reykjavík’s Sky Lagoon
  Treat yourself to a luxurious soak at the Sky Lagoon, an oceanside geothermal pool with breathtaking views of the North Atlantic. The contrast of the warm water and chilly winter air makes it a memorable experience.

• Hvammsvík Hot Springs
  Enjoy a unique blend of relaxation and nature at Hvammsvík Hot Springs. Take a refreshing dip in the brisk sea before retreating to the soothing warmth of the hot springs or a steam bath—a perfect combination of serenity and invigoration.

• Geothermal Pool Day
  Recharge after New Year’s celebrations by visiting one of Reykjavík's many geothermal pools. The warm, mineral-rich waters provide a rejuvenating escape from the winter chill, ideal for unwinding and soaking up Icelandic culture.

Iceland New Year’s: FAQs

Planning to celebrate New Year’s in Iceland? From fireworks in Reykjavík to navigating the winter weather, here are answers to some of the most common questions to help you make the most of your trip.

Can I buy fireworks in Iceland for New Year’s Eve?

Yes, you can. Icelandic regulation restricts the sale and use of fireworks to the period between the 28th of December and the 6th of January, so if you’re planning to use fireworks, you must do so within this period.

Are restaurants in Iceland open during New Year’s?

Many restaurants around Iceland shut early on New Year’s Eve as locals typically don’t eat out. You’ll find plenty of options in Reykjavík, but you should book a table early on to avoid disappointment. 

What should I wear during New Year’s in Iceland?

Iceland is at the peak of its winter during the holiday season so you should dress warmly with plenty of layers (including thermals and waterproof jackets) and accessories such as hats, gloves, and scarves. On New Year’s Eve, Icelanders like to dress up with sparkly tops and funny headwear. Don some sequins and get into the festive spirit!

Are swimming pools open during New Year’s?

Even during the holiday season, you will find some swimming pools open, especially in Reykjavík. Laugardalslaug is one of the popular ones, just bear in mind that opening hours are limited around this time of year.

Iceland’s New Year’s traditions are one of a kind. Whether you want to embrace the festive spirit in Reykjavík or watch some good old Áramótaskaup, you will have an unforgettable experience in Iceland.

With our homely hotels with state-of-the-art facilities, you can enjoy a comfortable stay in Iceland. We also recommend booking a restaurant in advance for the occasion! Let us help you prepare for a magical Icelandic New Year’s Eve.