There’s no doubt to why more and more people are spending New Year’s Eve in Reykjavik, Iceland. It’s the time of year that Icelanders look forward to – where fireworks, parties and traditions take centre stage! Read on for five reasons why you should consider spending New Year’s Eve in Iceland’s charming capital city with stunning natural wonders on its doorstep.
1. Fireworks Extravaganza
There is no ‘official’ firework display in Iceland- the displays are put on for people, by the people! But downtown is the place to be as crowds gather and the atmosphere is electric. It is an extraordinary experience to be part of and the night skies set alight by fireworks are incredible.
As a point of interest, all fireworks used are sold by the Icelandic Association for Search and Rescue (ICE-SAR) with all proceeds pumped back into the organisation. ICE-SAR a non-profit, volunteer-based organisation specialising in search and rescue both on land and at sea around Iceland’s coast. So not only is the fireworks extravaganza a sight to see, it’s also contributes to a great cause. Why not do your bit and buy a sparkler or two?
2. City Sights
As you build up to the new year festivities spend your time around town exploring the city sights. Be tempted by a spot of retain therapy, stroll around the harbour, marvel at the iconic spire of Hallgrimskirkja, or duck into the many fascinating, and in some instances, bizarre museums.
Another of Iceland’s striking landmarks is Perlan. The distinctive dome houses several exhibitions, plus the revolving restaurant is a great place to take in views of the city. Have a drink at the 5th floor bar remembering to toast in Icelandic style – “Skál”!
3. Bonfires (Áramótabrennas) – a Traditional Icelandic New Year’s Eve Event
For more than 200 years now, 10 bonfires have been lit all around Reykjavik at 8.30pm – friends, family, neighbours and guests gather in the evening to reflect on the year behind and spread well-wishes for the year ahead. It is truly a unique experience.
4. Áramótaskaupið – Iceland’s Annual Comedy Special
Broadcast annually since 1966, Áramótaskaupið is a comedy special broadcast which over 90% of the population tunes in to watch. The show creates satirical sketches of the year’s top stories. It is an important part of New Year’s celebrations for Icelandic families and is the talk of Iceland on New Year’s Day! Fear not, the show ends before midnight so you can join in the rest of the festivities.
5. Natural wonders to start the new year
Although the festivities may be over, you can start your new year in style exploring Iceland’s incomparable landscapes. Perhaps bathe in the naturally heated waters of the Blue Lagoon or head out into the countryside where natural wonders abound. A popular route around the Golden Circle, showcases a trio of incredible places. Thingvellir is both historically and geologically significant being both the site of the Iceland’s ancient parliament formed in 930AD and also where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates visibly meet. Geysir is a steaming geothermal area where the geyser Strokkur erupts in dramatic fashion every few minutes. Completing the trio, Gullfoss is a powerful, two-tier waterfall in a dramatic canyon along the Hvita river. And that’s just touching the surface of incredible wonders in Iceland’s south west.
Please note that due to the popularity of the Blue Lagoon and in order to avoid delays upon arrival we strongly recommend customers to pre-book their entrance tickets in advance with an allocated entry time. Please contact our team to find out more.
Feeling inspired?
If Reykjavik ticks all your boxes, our New Year in Reykjavik short break may be just the thing. Or you might prefer to something completely tailored to you. Get in touch with our Iceland specialists on 01737 214 250 or send an enquiry to start the ball rolling and make this new year one to remember.
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