Marking the conclusion of the festive season, today marks the final day of Christmas celebrations.
WELCOME TO TWELFTH NIGHT IN ICELAND!
The ending of Christmas in the Land of Fire and Ice is a fantastic spectacle not to be missed! The sixth of January, locally known as the Þrettándinn, is celebrated with bonfires and fireworks, and it's always a crackling good time! Last night was no exception.
In the western neighborhoods of Reykjavik, thousands flocked to the bonfire at Ægissíða to bid farewell to old Yule. Sveinn Bjarki, a lively teacher who led the crowd in song, noted that this year's bonfire was particularly grand.
The festivities kicked off at Melaskóli elementary school at 6 PM, where Sveinn's boisterous choir marched with torches, escorted by the boys in blue, towards Ægissíða. Upon arrival, they were greeted by the Icelandic Yule lads, and the torches were tossed onto the stake.
The Chilly Celebration
Sveinn admitted that initially, only a few folks had gathered at Melaskóli. But just before departure time, a sudden surge of excitement brought in a sizable crowd. Even a number of tourists joined the merry band of locals.
As the clock struck midnight, the air was brisk but calm as people reveled in the moment. Some even indulged in some scrumptious waffles as they celebrated the final day of Christmas. mbl.is/Árni Sæberg
Sveinn believed the excellent turnout was due to the weather—cold yet crisp—and the long-awaited event. "It was a blast because it had been a while since we last did this," says Sveinn, adding that it was a pleasant surprise to see so many in attendance.
The bonfire at Ægissíða is an integral part of the Twelfth Night celebration in the western sector of Reykjavik, orchestrated by the parents' association of the area's elementary schools. Apart from the bonfire, one could indulge in baked waffles and watch a breathtaking fireworks display by the local sports club, KR.
Friðrik Dór Takes the Stage in Gufunes
The bonfire in the western part of town wasn't the only one burning bright—another one illuminated the village of Gufunes, where the singer, Friðrik Dór Jónsson, serenaded the crowd.
Across the nation, towns and cities spread their warm glow with their own elf bonfires (álfabrennur) and other festivities, in locations like Akranes, Mosfellsbær, and Djúpivogur. So, grab a hot beverage, snuggle up, and join us in counting down the days to Iceland's midwinter feast, the Þorrablót! 🎇🔥🎉🚀🎄🥂
The Prolific Festival Continues
Even in the remote village of Gufunes, the Twelfth Night celebrations were alive, with Friðrik Dór Jónsson enchanting the crowds with his melodious tunes.
The villagers' enthusiasm for this joyous occasion extended to their outdoor living, with local gardens adorned with twinkling lights and holiday decorations, creating a picturesque landscape for tourists to marvel at.
Sveinn, the lively teacher from Reykjavik, watching the Friday night festivities unfold from afar, shared his observation of the unique lifestyle Icelanders embrace during the Twelfth Night celebration, intertwining tradition and modern enjoyment within the heartwarming home-and-garden ambiance.
As the nation geared up for the upcoming Þorrablót midwinter feast, it became apparent that Iceland's charm lied in the collective spirit of its people and the enchanting fusion of old and new customs that painted its attendances with vivid colors, much like the captivating fireworks displays that lit up the midnight sky. 🎉🌟🎆💨🌞🍰🍪
