Traditions and Celebrations
A community-curated guide by Iranian-Icelandic Community
Christmas and New Year
Christmas Eve (December 24 at 6 PM) is the main celebration with family dinners and gifts. The 13 Icelandic Yule Lads arrive one per day in the 13 days before Christmas. December 23 (Þorláksmessa) is traditionally marked with fermented skate and last-minute shopping. New Year's Eve features fireworks across the country.
Spring and Summer Celebrations
Easter brings five consecutive days off (Thursday to Monday). Pre-Lenten festivities include Bun Monday (cream puffs), Shrove Tuesday (salted lamb soup), and Ash Wednesday when children dress up and collect sweets. The First Day of Summer (third Thursday in April) is a public holiday with parades. Iceland's National Day is June 17, celebrated nationwide.
Annual Festivals
The Bank Holiday Weekend in late July/early August features major festivals. Reykjavík Pride takes place in August, along with Culture Night (Menningarnótt) offering free events at museums and public spaces. Þorri winter feasts (January–February) feature traditional Icelandic foods. Municipal summer festivals are held throughout the country.