The traditional christmas in Iceland
As the air turns crisp, days grow shorter, and snow covers the streets, I feel the magic of Christmas approaching—a season I eagerly await all year. It’s not just the holiday itself but the beautiful traditions that make the Icelandic Christmas season (Jól) truly unique and heartwarming.
One of my favorite rituals is making and enjoying laufabrauð. This delicate, leaf-bread tradition connects me to generations past. Gathering around the table with my family to cut intricate patterns into the dough is not just about creating food—it’s a moment of togetherness. The golden, crispy bread, fried to perfection, feels like a little piece of the season’s spirit in every bite.
Another cherished tradition for me has always been venturing into the snow-covered mountains for hunting rjúpa (ptarmigan). Beyond being a long-standing Icelandic custom, it’s a deeply personal experience that ties me to nature and family, especially my father. The thrill of the hunt, the stunning winter scenery, and the knowledge that this bird will grace our Christmas table make it both meaningful and unforgettable. The fresh, invigorating air fills my lungs as I trek through the pristine white landscape, searching for these birds, a staple of Icelandic Christmas cuisine. On 23rd of December (Þorláksmessa), my family gathers to "reita rjúpur" (pluck the ptarmigans), a tradition that is as much about storytelling and laughter as it is about preparing the food. These moments of working together in my grandmas garage and listening to the christmas greetings on the radio are some of my most treasured memories.
The scent of fresh mandarins (mandarínur) filling the room is another hallmark of the Icelandic Christmas. These little citrus fruits have a way of lifting spirits, their bright color and fresh aroma serving as a cheerful reminder of the season. They’re a simple yet essential part of the Advent (aðventan), a time of preparation and reflection. Lighting Advent candles, decorating with christmas stars, and sharing small moments of peace make this season deeply meaningful.
Decorating the house with jólaskraut—lights, ornaments, and garlands—is another tradition I cherish. The cozy glow of Christmas lights reflects the warmth we share indoors, even as winter storms rage outside. The entire country seems to transform into a winter wonderland, where magic feels just a little more tangible.
Now that I’m growing up and have my own apartment with my girlfriend, we’re creating new Christmas traditions to blend with the old. One of our new rituals is inviting our friends over for dinner, a tradition that has come to stay. Everyone brings something to share, turning the meal into a delightful potluck of flavors and stories. Last years, we’ve also started baking sörur (small almond-filled cookies coated in chocolate). The process of baking these delicate treats fills our home with the sweet aroma of Christmas and makes the season feel even more special.
And, of course, there’s the joy of reconnecting. Christmas in Iceland is about more than gifts; it’s about uniting family and friends. Gatherings are filled with laughter, music, and stories, reminding us of what truly matters.
No Icelandic Christmas is complete without the jólasveinar (the Yule Lads). These mischievous figures from Icelandic folklore are said to be the sons of the trolls, Grýla and Leppalúði, who dwell in the mountains. Each of the 13 Yule Lads has a unique personality and role, arriving one by one each night from the 12th of December until Christmas Eve to leave small treats—or a potato if you’ve been naughty—in children’s shoes. Their playful antics and quirks add an element of humor and tradition to the season, serving as a delightful reminder of Iceland’s rich folklore.
Icelandic Christmas is not just a holiday; it’s a feeling, a time when the coldest days of the year are filled with the warmest memories. It’s laughter by the fire, the sweet taste of laufabrauð, the scent of mandarins, and the joy of being surrounded by those I hold dear. Every year, I find myself falling more in love with this enchanting season.
