Reykjavik Christmas Guide 2015

HRISTMAS GUIDE 2015

HOLIDAY TRADITIONS THE YULELADS AND FAMILY DAYS OF ICELANDIC CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY OPENING HOURS

L SPECIA E D ITI O N CHRISTMAS CONCERTS CHRISTMAS SHOPPING WINTER TOURS AND ACTIVITIES

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PLAN YOUR TRIP WITH US!

INFORMATION AND BOOKING CENTRE Bankastræti 2 - Downtown Tel: +354 522 4979 itm@itm.is - www.itm.is OPEN: 09.00 - 19.00 BOOK YOUR TOUR HERE Ba

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Volcano House Exhibition & Cinema Volcano House features two documentaries that focus on the most famous eruptions of Iceland, including Vestmannaeyjar in 1973 and Eyjafjallajökull in 2010, as well as talking about the causes and effects of Icelandic volcanology in general.

The Volcano House includes a FREE “hands on” geology exhibition featuring many different mineral samples, such as lava from the 2014 eruption of Bárðabunga and ash from the eruption of Eyjafjallajökull.

Christmas Opening Hours December 24th 10-17 December 25th 10-17 December 26th 10-17

December 31st 10-17 Jaunary 1st 12-22

“Must-go when touring the museums of Reykjavik”

- Nikeflies, Connecticut, November 22, 2015

“A must stop for geology buffs!”

- sfrarymt, Montana, October 3, 2015

VOLCANO HOUSE Volcano Cinema and Geological Exhibition in Downtown Reykjavik, next to the Old Harbour.

Normal opening hours from 10:00-21:00 / Show time every hour, on the hour.

Tryggvagata 11, 101 Reykjavík | (+354) 555 1900 | www.volcanohouse.is

REYKJAVÍK CHRISTMAS GUIDE 2015 HOLIDAY TRADITIONS

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CHRISTMAS CALENDAR

12-13

THE YULELADS

14-19

HALLGRÍMSKIRKJA 20-21 NEW YEARS EVE

24-27

TOURS AND ACTIVITIES

28-35

ADVENT AREAS

36-43

CHRISTMAS SHOPPING

44-49

OPENING HOURS

50-63

CHRISTMAS CONCERTS

64-71

TOP 10 DECEMBER ACTIVITIES 72

Published by MD Reykjavík ehf.

Editor: Hjörtur Atli Guðmunds. Geirdal,

Laugavegur 4, 101 Reykjavík.

hjortur@whatson.is, Tel.:847-4153.

Publisher: Sigurþór Marteinn,

Assistant Editor: Gréta Sigríður Einarsdóttir, greta@whatson.is

Cover Photo: VisitReykjavík.is Printing: Oddi, Ecolabelled Printing

Layout & design: Stefán Birgir Stefáns, sbs@sbs.is

Authors have taken all reasonable care in preparing this handbook, but make no guarantee about the accuracy or completeness of its content.

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PRINTED MATTER

© MD Reykjavík All right reserved. No part of this work covered by the copyright may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means – without the written permission of the authors and the publisher.

Other publications by MD Reykjavík; Reykjavík City Guide, Reykjavík City Map, Akureyri Guide, What‘s On in Reykjavík and the My Destination Reykjavík Magazine.

4 | Reykjavik Christmas Guide | www.christmasiniceland.is

FROM REYKJAVIK

Schedule

NOV- JAN 13:00

Price: Adults: 9.000 ISK Children (7-15) 4.500 ISK Children (0-6) FREE

Christmas Discount

Schedule NOV- JAN 21:00

Price: Adults: 9.000 ISK Children (7-15) 4.500 ISK Children (0-6) FREE

Merry Christmas

Book online www.specialtours.is / info@specialtours.is Call us +354 560 8800, or visit our ticket sale at the old harbour

IT’S ALL ABOUT TRADITION Traditions, new and old, are what makes holidays so special. Eating a chocolate Easter egg at Easter, or blowing out the candles on your birthday are the things that take a celebration from nice to festive.

Christmas, the most important holiday in Iceland, is so laden with traditions, it takes more than a month to cover them all.

AÐVENTA The Advent begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas and marks the official start of the Christmas season in Iceland. It’s when things start getting magical, with lights shining through the winter darkness, concerts and events, and everyone getting into the Christmas spirit. One of the longest-standing traditions that marks the beginning of the season is the lighting of

the Christmas tree in Reykjavík and the surrounding towns, Kópavogur and Hafnafjörður.

These tall evergreen trees placed in public places are traditional gifts from the other Nordic countries, Denmark, Norway and Sweden. The trees are lit during a festive ceremony, with Christmas carols and Yule Lads as entertainment for the children.

ADVENT LIGHTS Come the end of November, Advent lights are staples in most Icelandic homes. There are two types of Advent lights: the Advent Wreath with four candles, one for every Sunday of the Advent, and the triangle-shaped, seven-candle electric candelabra, which is normally placed on windowsills to shine out into the winter darkness.

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CHRISTMAS TREE Christmas trees in Iceland used to be made of wood and decorated with juniper branches and candles, mostly because there weren’t that many trees we could cut down. Today most Icelanders use real trees, as opposed to artificial ones. Some are grown in Iceland, while others are imported. The tradition is to decorate them just a day or two before Christmas, on the 23rd, or even on Christmas Eve day.

They then stay up for the 13 days of Christmas before they are taken down along with all other Christmas decorations.

LAUFABRAUÐ Laufabrauð, literally ‘leaf bread’, are round, wafer-thin wheat breads traditionally cut with intricate decorative patterns and then deepfried. During Advent, families and friends often get together to make laufabrauð. Frequently they will

throw their artistic skills into the mix, resulting in some very fine specimens that are considered too pretty to eat and tied up with red ribbons and hung as decorations. Others are usually served at Christmas and New Year’s dinner with butter.

A GIFT IN THE SHOE One of the best Christmas traditions, particularly for Icelandic kiddies, is putting your shoe in the window. This starts 13 days before Christmas, when the Icelandic Yule Lads, who live in the mountains, start coming to town, one per night, bringing presents. Before they go to sleep, kids take one of their best shoes and leave near an open window. Come morning – presto! The shoe will contain a small gift from the Yule Lad that arrived that night.

However, this only works if the child has been good – if he or she has been bad, the shoe will just contain a lonely potato.

Your complete guide to Christmas in Iceland | 7

© KJARNAFÆÐI

COOKIES The baking of cookies and making of confectioneries is the barometer of pre-Christmas domestic excellence in Iceland. Throughout the country, Icelandic homemakers work overtime to bake a dizzying number of different cookie sorts – and are not above boasting about it. Baking six sorts normally generates applause, 12 sorts is regarded with such awe

that it is like announcing you just climbed Mount Everest in high heels.

The cookies are saved for Christmas (mostly), but by the time Christmas rolls around, most people have stuck their hand in the cookie tin once too often and feel slightly nauseated at the prospect of yet more cookies.

This is usually followed by ardent resolutions to hit the gym at least five times a week in the New Year.

FOOD, GLORIOUS FOOD DON’T MISS OUT ON:

CHRISTMAS BUFFETS One of the unshakable traditions of Advent in Iceland is the Christmas buffet. Most restaurants offer them and almost everyone will partake at least once during Advent. These are lavish affairs typically containing dozens of dishes, different types of herring, smoked and cured salmon, reindeer pâté, smoked puffin and much, much more … and that’s just the cold dishes. Hot dishes will normally include the ubiquitous smoked lamb, roast pork with rind, rack of ham, turkey, and more. And let’s not even mention the stacked dessert buffet.

Food and cooking are a major part of Icelandic Christmas celebrations.

For most people, the Christmas meal is the most special meal of the year, and Icelanders go all-out in the preparations. For many centuries, smoked lamb, or hangikjöt, was the traditional gourmet Christmas meal. This has changed in the last few decades, however, and there are some equally traditional options for Christmas dinner, even though most families stick to one single tradition for their Christmas meal. Popular fare at Christmas includes rjúpa, or ptarmigan, a member of the grouse family that feeds on ling, berries and herbs, and hamborgarhryggur, glazed rack of ham, traditionally a Danish meal. Also catching on in the last few years are reindeer, turkey and even Beef Wellington.

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DECEMBER ISSUE

OUT NOW!

WHAT’S ON IN REYKJAVÍK IS YOUR GUIDE TO EVERYTHING THAT’S HAPPENING IN REYKJAVÍK, CONCERTS, EVENTS AND SO MUCH MORE. FIND THE NEWEST EDITION ALL OVER REYKJAVÍK!

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LOVED ONES REMEMBERED The Yuletide season is a time when Icelanders remember their departed loved ones. To really appreciate the tradition, it’s important to remember the huge part Icelandic family plays in Icelandic Christmas celebrations.

On December 24th, and often on New Year’s Eve day as well, many families will come together at the graves of their loved ones, and place on them a candle or some sort of light to show that they are remembered and missed. The cemeteries look amazingly beautiful in the midwinter darkness, all lit up with candles, particularly if there is snow. Hólavallagarður, a cemetary from 1832 situated at Suðurgata, overlooking the Tjörnin lake in the western part of Reykjavík, is the most central one and definitely worth a stroll around on a snowwhite winter afternoon.

THE BOOK FLOOD Iceland sells more books per capita than any other nation in the world, and the vast majority of them are sold in the lead-up to Christmas. In Iceland this is known as the Christmas Book Flood. The tradition in Iceland is that everyone must receive at least one book for Christmas to take to bed on Christmas Eve along with some chocolates. So, beginning in November, hundreds of books are published and the talk is all

about books – in the media, in the workplace, among family and friends, and at Christmas parties.

Once Christmas is over and the books have been read, everyone’s a critic, giving their views and opinions of that latest tome and whether it is as good, or better, as the author’s last one.

FERMENTED SKATE DAY Skötuveislur or fermented skate parties are without a doubt one of the more bizarre Icelandic traditions. Every year on December 23, Icelanders get together and eat skate (the fish) that has been sitting in a closed container and allowed to ferment for a month or more.

By that time it has a smell that will clear your sinuses from about a mile away. The main headache is how to get the smell out of your house before the bells start ringing in Christmas. As a result, many people choose to partake of this delicacy in a restaurant, or alternatively cook it in the garage, even outdoors.

Predictably, not everyone is partial to this tradition, and not everybody can handle the smell. In fact, it can be kind of a macho thing for some, and frequently requires one shot

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(or several) of ice-cold schnapps like Danish Aquavit or Icelandic Brennivín, a.k.a. Black Death, to get it down. Not everyone’s kettle of fish, but certainly a fun tradition, particularly when enjoyed with friends.

NEW YEAR’S BONFIRES On New Year’s Eve, bonfires are lit throughout the country to symbolize the burning of the old year and its sins. There’s always a really great atmosphere at these “brennur”, kids with sparklers, happy faces, friends and neighbours mingling, and the heat of the fire mixed with the winter cold. Since the brennur are not always easy for foreign visitors to find, in recent years, tour operators have started organizing special tours to get them involved in the fun.

TWELFTH NIGHT Þrettándinn (Twelfth Night) used to be considered the start of the new year in Iceland. According to folklore, strange and magical things took place on the Twelfth Night (January 6th), and could be dangerous for humans.

Cows started talking (although people were warned not to listen to them because their talk would drive

them mad), seals shed their skins and walked as men, and the elves moved house. People make sure to keep every corner of their house well-lit on Twelfth Night in case the elves stop by on their way.

On Twelfth Night, bonfires are lit throughout the country (just like on New Year’s Eve, only smaller) and the “elf king and queen” will often make an appearance, dressed in fancy clothing and riding a horse. Families flock to the bonfires and sing New Year’s songs, often containing lots of references to elves.

DON’T MISS OUT ON:

THE ESSENTIAL CHRISTMAS DRINK Iceland’s traditional Christmas drink is a mixture of the locally produced Maltöl and orange soda.

Each family member tends to have his or her own opinion on what constitutes the perfect mixture of the two: 50/50 or 60/40.

Debates can go on for hours, days or even years. What do you think?

Pick up a can/bottle of each and experiment!

Your complete guide to Christmas in Iceland | 11

— THE ICELANDIC — CHRISTMAS CALENDAR December 23rd

ÞORLÁKSMESSA (ST. THORLAKUR’S DAY) Þorláksmessa is the feast day of Iceland’s patron saint, the 12th century bishop of Skálholt, St. Thorlakur Thorhallsson, who died on December 23rd in 1193. It’s the last day before Christmas is celebrated, so for most people this is the height of Christmas preparation and all the stress that comes with it. The Christmas tree is usually decorated on this day and it’s also a big shopping day for last minute gifts, with stores remaining open until midnight.

Another Þorláksmessa custom is eating fermented skate. Many restaurants offer skate lunches on Þorláksmessa. At the skate lunch two kinds of skate are usually on the menu, one kind is only slightly fermented, the other very fermented, and both are served in chunks with boiled potatoes.

December 24th

AÐFANGADAGSKVÖLD (CHRISTMAS EVE) In Iceland, Christmas Eve is the most important night of celebration. Christmas officially begins at 6 pm sharp when all the church bells throughout Iceland ‘ring in’ the Jól. By that time most of the nation is washed and dressed in their best clothes (ideally new ones, to escape the Yule Cat) and people affectionately wish each other a Merry Christmas before sitting down to Christmas dinner.

The rest attends mass that starts at precisely six o’clock which is then followed by dinner. This is a very intimate and festive evening that Icelanders normally spend only with their nearest and dearest.

After dinner people relocate to the Christmas tree to open presents.

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December 25-26th

December 31st

JÓLADAGUR & ANNAR Í JÓLUM (CHRISTMAS DAY & THE SECOND DAY OF CHRISTMAS)

GAMLÁRSDAGUR (NEW YEAR’S EVE)

Christmas day and Dec 26 are both public holidays and most people spend them lazing around. Reading is popular, as is snoozing, going out for walks, lying around watching TV … anything that requires minimal exertion, really. The evenings are usually reserved for Christmas parties with the extended family.

New Year’s Eve is a major event on the Icelandic social calendar.

The fun begins around 6 pm when most people have a big festive dinner, after which they head out to a bonfire, or brenna, to mingle and socialize. At 22:30 it is time for the eagerly awaited “Áramótaskaup” (New Year’s Jest) – an hour-long comedy special on TV. More than 90% of the Icelandic nation watches the “Áramótaskaup” so the streets are virtually deserted while it is on.

The New Year’s madness starts to build as soon as when the final credits roll, and at midnight all hell breaks loose. In Iceland fireworks are sold unrestricted to the public between Christmas and New Years, and this small nation of 320,000 people manages to fire off over 500 tons of fireworks on New Year’s Eve. When most of the madness is over and everyone has toasted with some bubbly, people either head out to parties or downtown to go clubbing, where they party the night, and most of the morning, away.

January 6th

ÞRETTÁNDINN (TWELFT NIGHT) Þrettándinn, or the Twelfth Day of Christmas, is a day for those who have not yet had their fill of bonfires and fireworks, but it also has a more mystical meaning. Christmas may be a Christian celebration, but Þrettándinn is securely rooted in folklore and myths. On this last day of the thirteen day Christmas season, the last of the Yule Lads leaves the human dwellings, the elves and hidden people move house, cows speak and seals leave their seal skin and walk on land as men. Since the Twelfth Night used to be considered the start of the new year, Icelander’s throw another bonfire for good measure and finish off the little that’s left of the fireworks.

Your complete guide to Christmas in Iceland | 13

THE YULE LADS & FAMILY Yule Lads are Iceland’s version of Santa Claus, except there are 13 of them, each with their own definitive character. They live in a cave in an undisclosed location in the mountains with their mother, the formidable Grýla, their wimpy father, Leppalúði, and the Yule Cat.

GRÝLA A troll who eats naughty children.

She lives in a cave and always has a pot with boiling water at the ready, should she hear of some exceptionally badly behaved children. She also travels with a large sack for convenient transport of the children she catches. Grýla has been used by parents throughout the centuries to frighten children into behaving.

In 1746, Icelandic authorities, probably concerned with the mental health of the up-andcoming generation, issued a public decree, forbidding parents from frightening their children with the hideous Grýla.

LEPPALÚÐI GRÝLA

Grýla’s third husband, not known for anything much, except for being really lazy. He doesn’t travel like the rest of his family, just sits

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around the cave waiting for Grýla to bring him food. His name has become synonymous in Icelandic with being extremely ugly and/or poorly dressed.

YULE CAT It sounds like a cosy story but the Yule cat is actually the sinister sidekick of the ghastly child-eating Grýla. “Jólakötturinn”, the Yule Cat, lives with her and her wuss of a husband in their cave and every person who does not get a new item of clothing for Christmas ends up in his belly. The Yule Cat is still alive and thriving, particularly in the minds of those who maintain that they absolutely must buy something new to wear for Christmas, or else

they will meet a most horrible fate at the hands – or claws – of the Yule Cat.

THE YULE LADS The Icelandic Yule Lads, Grýla and Leppalúði’s sons, are a group of 13 mischievous imps who start arriving in town, one each night, from December 12th until Christmas Eve. They also leave in the same order, one per night from the 25th until the 6th of January. In the Iceland of yore they were an incredible nuisance and brought grief to the general populace, whereas today they’ve morphed into kinder, gentler Yule Lads who bring gifts for kiddies who have been good and deposit them in their shoes.

— INTRODUCING THE YULE LADS — Drawings by Elín Elísabet Einarsdóttir

STEKKJASTAUR

Sheep-Cote Clod / Dec. 12th Due to his affinity for sheep milk, Stekkjastaur spends most of his time among the humans breaking into the sheep pens and trying to suckle the ewes.

He is resilient in his efforts despite his disability, his two peg legs that make him completely stiff.

GILJAGAUR

Gully Gawk / Dec. 13th Another fan of dairy products, Giljagaur is a bit more patient and cunning in his attempts at milk theft. He doesn’t try to go straight to the cow’s udders, but waits until the farm workers are distracted before he swoops in and slurps the froth off the fresh milk.

STEKKJASTAUR

Your complete guide to Christmas in Iceland | 15

ÞVÖRUSLEIKIR

Spoon Licker / Dec. 15th Þvörusleikir is extremely tall and skinny, which might have had some influence on his love for wooden spoons. He waits patiently for the work to be finished in the kitchen before he, quick as a flash, grabs the dirty spoons and licks them.

POTTASKEFILL

Pot Licker / Dec. 16th

STÚFUR

STÚFUR

Stubby / Dec. 14th Stúfur is named for his height, or lack thereof. For some reason, he considers burnt bits of food that get stuck to the pan a particular delicacy and goes so far as to raid kitchens for dirty pans to get his hands on the good stuff.

Like Stúfur, this Yule Lad also likes to lick the remains from the inside of the pots, though in contrast to his brother he has no interest for burnt remains. His crimes are simple but thought out, he knocks at the door, and when the inhabitants rush to see who it is, he sneaks to the kitchen and cleans out the pots.

ASKASLEIKIR

Bowl Licker / Dec. 17th In the old days, Icelanders ate their food from a lidded wooden bowl called “askur,” with everyone having their own separate one. This old fellow would creep in, sometimes hide

WELL-BEHAVED CHILDREN Children are on their best behaviour in December when the Yule Lads are on the prowl and deposit gifts in the shoes of angelic boys and girls.

Parents are also keen to remind their offspring that if they are not good, they will receive a potato in their shoe.

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SKYRGÁMUR

Skyr Gobbler / Dec 19th For the uninitiated, skyr (pron. skeer) is a delicious dairy product, halfway between cheese and yoghurt. It’s fat-free and high in protein. That should explain both Skyrgámur’s size (he’s said to be the size of a bull) and his habit of eating other people’s skyr.

BJÚGNAKRÆKIR

Sausage Swiper / Dec 20th The name really says it all.

Bjúga is a salty, smoked Icelandic sausage, a favourite of Bjúgnakrækir.

He loves them so much, he doesn’t mind crawling through soot and smoke to get them.

HURÐASKELLIR

under the bed, and then snatch the askar whenever they were put aside, licking their insides clean. Since most people have upgraded to plates, he probably has too, but still keeps his name, for old times sake.

HURÐASKELLIR

Door Slammer / Dec. 18th Waking up is never pleasant, and being woken by a loud noice such as a door slamming is even less so. For some reason, Hurðaskellir thinks this is hilarious and goes through town slamming doors for his own amusement. He even does it so forcefully that he has another nickname, Faldafeykir, which roughly translates as Skirt Swisher.

BJÚGNAKRÆKIR

Your complete guide to Christmas in Iceland | 17

GLUGGAGÆGIR

Window Peeper / Dec 21st Again, the name really says it all.

However, it’s important to note that his intentions, although not honourable, are mostly foodrelated. He only peeps in windows in order to locate food he could possibly steal.

GÁTTAÞEFUR

Door Sniffer / Dec 22nd Gáttaþefur was from birth blessed with a huge nose, heightened olfactory senses, as well as the ability to never catch a cold. He is, as so many other Icelanders, partial to laufabrauð, and uses his abnormally large nose to sniff out its hiding places.

GÁTTAÞEFUR

KETKRÓKUR

Meat Hook / Dec 23rd It’s obvious that some of the Yule Lads are more industrious and clever than others. Ketkrókur, for example, travels around with a long stick with a hook at the end, perfect for sticking it down chimneys in order to steal meat, preferably hangikjöt (smoked lamb).

KERTASNÍKIR

Candle Beggar / Dec 24th

KERTASNÍKIR

One of the few Yule Lads not constantly occupied with food, Kertasníkir instead enjoys stealing candles, preferably from children. This seems especially mean when you know that in the old days every kid usually got a nice candle at Christmas and sometimes not much else.

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CHRISTMAS MUSIC FESTIVAL 2015 AT HALLGRÍMSKIRKJA The Hallgrímskirkja Christmas Music Festival is the highlight of the year for many music fans, and a welcome break from the stress of Christmas preparations. The Hallgrímskirkja Friends of the Arts Society has for several years made sure their guests can expect a great program of various musical events, full of festive spirit, and this year is no exception.

The festival consists of 10 concerts, with the acclaimed house choirs and organists taking centre stage.

Some of the highlights of the festival include: The excellent German Jazz duo that consists of pianist Markus Burger and saxophonist Jan von Klewist will be playing well known Christmas hymns on Dec 17th. The concert is held in collaboration with the

German embassy in Iceland and the admittance is free.

The outstanding chamber choir of Hallgrímskirkja, Schola cantorum, will be performing famous Advent and Christmas Music in three lunch time concerts on Dec 4th, 11th and 18th at 12 noon. Conductor is Hörður Áskelsson.

Olivier Messiaen’s great organ piece The Birth of the Saviour – Nine Contemplations for Organ will be performed by Björn Steinar Sólbergsson, organist of Hallgrimskirkja. For those interested in hearing the great Klais organ of Hallgrímskirkja and all its 5275 pipes, being in Hallgrímskirkja Dec. 27th is a must.

The festival concludes with the extremely popular annual event, Festive Sounds on New Year’s Eve. The concert starts at 5 pm, Dec 31st, with three trumpets, timpani and organ offering a program of wellknown pieces like J.S. Bach’s Toccata and fugue in d-minor and Albinoni’s Adagio.

For more information see www.listvinafelag.is.

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Hallgrimskirkja Christmas Music Festival November 28 - December 31 2015

Advent concerts with Schola Cantorum Friday December 4th, Friday December 11th & Friday December 18th 12.00–12.30 noon The excellent chamber choir Schola Cantorum sings various programs of beautiful Advent and Christmas choral music. Conductor Hörður Áskelsson. Admittance: 2500 ISK.

Thursday December 17th 8 pm Jazz before Christmas The outstanding German pianist Markus Burger and saxophonist Jan von Klewist play Christmas hymns.

In collaboration with the German Embassy in Iceland and in support of the Icelandic Association for Search and Rescue. Free admittance.

Sunday December 27th – CHRISTMAS 5.00–6.00 pm The Birth of the Saviour – An organ concert Olivier Messiaen’s great organ piece The Birth of the Saviour – Nine Contemplations for Organ will be performed by Björn Steinar Sólbergsson, organist of Hallgrimskirkja. Admittance: 2500 ISK.

December 31st New Year’s Eve 5–5:45 pm Festive Music for the New Year Wonderful musical fireworks at New Year’s!

Three trumpets, a gigantic organ and timpani salute the New Year in Hallgrimskirkja.

Music by Vivaldi, Bach and Albinoni. Performers: Ásgeir H. Steingrímsson, Eiríkur Ö.

Pálsson, Einar St. Jónsson trumpets, Eggert Pálsson timpani and Björn Steinar Sólbergsson organ.

Admittance: 3500 ISK. Ticket sale in Hallgrimskirkja tel. 510 1000 open daily 9-5 and at the entrance and online on MIDI.IS The Hallgrimskirkja Friends Of The Arts Society’s 34th season - WWW. LISTVINAFELAG.IS

MERRY CHRISTMAS! GLEÐILEG JÓL!

HAPPY NEW YEAR! GLEÐILEGT NÝTT ÁR!

WHAT ARE YOU DOING NEW YEARS EVE? Christmas is great, some people even say it’s the best. But when Christmas Eve has come and gone, and you’ve been to all the family parties, eaten all the cookies and opened all the presents, what’s there to look forward to? New Year’s Eve, that’s what. If you’re still not satisfied, we even have a bonus festival, þrettándinn (Twelfth Night) dedicated to elves and other mythical creatures. If you are a kid (or a grown up with a moderate to severe interest in lighting fires), New Year’s Eve can be just as fun as Christmas, but on a completely different level.

A FAMILY AFFAIR – AT FIRST New Year’s Eve in Iceland is the party-night of the year. This might not be completely clear in the early part of the evening, because the majority of Icelanders, use that time to get together with family and/

or friends, eat something fantastic (turkey has become popular), and watch the annual comedy revue on television. Things only start to get going once they get their hands on some fireworks and start doing their best to blow up the neighbour‘s house, just before or around midnight.

COME ON, BABY, LIGHT MY FIRE There is a reason for our burning desire to set things on fire, as there is an old superstition that says you have to burn away the old year in order to wake up on New Year’s day with a clean slate, if only to keep your hangover company. Just in case

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the fireworks aren’t enough, we also have a New Year’s Eve bonfire. Since the bonfire promises to burn away the sins of the year gone by, you can imagine how popular it is. Most towns have one, of varying sizes, and Reykjavík even has 10 of them. Most of the are lit around 8.30, after dinner, but before the New Year’s Jest (Áramótaskaupið) starts.

ÁRAMÓTASKAUPIÐ IS A BIG DEAL Just how big of a deal can a comedy special broadcast by the national broadcasting company be, you ask?

Well, in 2002, for example, 95% of the population was watching.

I’m guessing the other 5% were doctors and nurses tending burn wounds, their patients, and maybe a bartender or two. This 50 minute comedy special satirising the year’s most prominent events has been on since 1966, which incidentally is the year the RÚV started broadcasting.

I think there might be something broadcast on the other stations, but I can’t be sure, I’ve never seen it at least. All conversations in Iceland on New Year’s day tend to start with a dissection of how funny (or not funny at all) the New Year’s Jest was.

the actual party gets started. After the fireworks have been lit and hot chocolate has been had with older family members, that’s when people put on their glitter hats, get their confetti bombs ready and head out, drink in one hand, and a lit sparkler in the other. House parties are popular, and downtown Reykjavík quickly starts filling up with eager partygoers. Try stopping by Lebowski bar, Iceland’s only bar inspired by the cult movie The Big Lebowski, and downing a few White Russians. Be sure to put on your party hat and your dancing shoes, you’re going to have a hard time keeping up with the Icelanders there!

THE PARTY PART This might surprise you, but it‘s actually not until after midnight that

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TOURS AND ACTIVITIES DURING CHRISTMAS Winter in Iceland is almost nothing like summer in Iceland. The darkness, of course, plays its part, but it‘s the weather that transforms the island.

The waterfalls that looked impressive surrounded by green grass in summer, are an unforgettable sight in icy cages on a frosty winter morning. And let’s not forget, it’s only at winter that the spectacular Northern Lights come out to play.

There is something for everyone when it comes to travel options from Reykjavík in the winter. Whether you’re looking for nature and scenery or some thrilling action, it’s all within day’s reach from the capital.

THE AMAZING NORTHERN LIGHTS The Northern Lights are truly a spectacular phenomenon, and although there’s unfortunately never a guarantee you’ll see them on your trip, you can at least enlist the help of the locals who know best. Here are some tips: make sure the sky is dark and clear, try your best to be patient, and since you have to be patient, wear warm clothes!

There are a number of Northern Lights tours available on www.whatson.is, where you can go by boat, bus or even a massive super jeep. Another thing to think about is making the

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most of the day by combining the Northern Lights hunt with another activity during the day, such as going on a glacier hike, getting a lobster dinner, or even making a trip of it and drive to the stunning glacial lagoon, Jökulsárlón. That way your time on the tour is always well spent and no one leaves without having a new and exciting experience!

SAFETY FIRST

!

Before you even consider travelling in Iceland during winter, it’s vital to remember that it requires a lot more care than travelling in summer, especially because the weather has a tendency to change suddenly. On a perfectly regular Sunday morning, it’s not unusual to experience a hailstorm, followed by blinding sunlight, followed by sleet, followed by a freak blizzard, followed by a complete calm followed by torrential rain. All within an hour.

Hiking, skiing, even driving can be transformed from a pleasant activity to a fight for your life in a much shorter time than you think, so be sure to check the forecast before you set out, wear warm clothing, preferably in layers, and consult with the locals, they know how to deal with our temperamental climate.

Your complete guide to Christmas in Iceland | 29

THE GOLDEN CIRCLE It’s the most popular day tour in Iceland, probably because it features some of the most impressive natural phenomena in the country, but you can still get back to the city before dark. The first stop is Geysir, one of the biggest geysers in the world, and the one that gave its name to the phenomenon. Geysir itself has been dormant for some years, but Strokkur, a neighbouring erupting hot spring, puts on a show every ten minutes or so. Close by is one of Iceland’s most powerful and majestic waterfalls, Gullfoss, the Golden Waterfall. The Golden Circle tour then comes to an end with a stop at Þingvellir national park. It’s an area that’s impressive,

both historically, as it is the historical seat of Iceland’s parliament, founded in 930 A.D., and also geographically as it is the spot where the tectonic plates of Europe and America meet, creating some stunning views. For those who are interested, Þingvellir is also a world renowned diving site!

SNOWMOBILING ON A GLACIER Not all travellers are content just watching the natural wonders Iceland has to offer from a distance, and prefer to get up close and personal instead. For those people, I have only 4 words. Snowmobiling on a glacier.

This is a great opportunity for the adventure-seeking traveller who wants to explore a glacier first hand. Going up on the glacier on a snowmobile gets you closer to the forces of nature than you’ve ever been before. Langjökull (the country’s second largest glacier) is only approx. 2.5 hours’ drive from the capital and tours run there every day, all year. Once there, you get a chance to see the breathtaking Icelandic interior in a way few people ever experience, e.g. views from the flanks of Langjökull from locations you can only access on specialized vehicles like snowmobiles. Snowmobiling can even be coupled with classic day tours such as the ever popular Golden Circle, allowing you to see all the highlights of Icelandic nature in a single day.

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GLACIER CLIMBING AND GLACIER HIKING For those who are not afraid of something more physically strenuous, taking a walk on top of a glacier is sure to be a trip to remember. One of the things that make Iceland so unique is the proximity of Reykjavík and other towns to awe-inspiring glaciers.

Keep in mind, however, that to explore the glacier, you need to travel with an experienced guide, otherwise it’s just too dangerous.

At www.whatson.is you’ll find some very interesting glacier walks of various difficulties and lengths.

Everyone should be able to find something to fit their needs and physical fitness.

THE ICE CAVE The newest addition to the flora of glacier tours is the man made ice cave in Langjökull, a tunnel through the inside of a glacier, where you can see into a glacial crevasse from the bottom up. On the way there you get to enjoy the beauty of West Iceland, the highlight probably being Hraunfossar, where the river flows from underneath the edge of a lava field, over red cliffs worn smooth by the water.

ACTIVITIES IN TOWN The nature can be beautiful this time of year, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of things to do within the city limits, especially when the weather is acting up. The museums of Reykjavík, both art and history, can be a very rewarding experience for the culturally minded. After nurturing the mind in the museums, the geothermally heated swimming pools of Reykjavík can take care of the body.

A relaxing soak in the hot tubs while conversing with the locals is especially nice when followed by a stroll through the city centre, festooned with lights. Afterwards, there are several great restaurants scattered throughout the centre and in December, every café and bar that’s capable of transforming itself into a music venue, will give you a sneak peek at Iceland’s lively music scene.

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ELDING

Adventure at Sea

WHALES - DOLPHINS IN DECEMBER Daily departures in December: 13:00 Duration: 3-5 hours

NEW YEAR’S EVE CRUISE 31 December 2015

Departure: 22:30 Duration: 2 hrs.

NORTHERN LIGHTS CRUISE Daily departures in December: 21:00 Duration: 1.5-2.5 hours

Elding Adventures at Sea | Old Harbour 101 Reykjavík | Iceland Tel: (+354) 519 5000 elding@elding.is | www.elding.is

10% disco un decem t in ber

Happy

Holidays

Daily tours

all year round

Tel. (+354) 580 9900 ice@mountaineers.is www.mountaineers.is

HORSEBACK RIDING The Icelandic horse is a breed unlike any other in the world. It’s been bred in complete isolation since the 11th century, a feat only accomplished because of Iceland’s isolation. Small and extremely well-tempered, the Icelandic horse is known for its unique gait, the “tölt”, an unusual gait where the horse seems to crouch down and slide over rough landscape like lava fields. You’ll find a variety of tours on www.whatson.is for all levels of expertise as well as a perfect opportunity to test drive the “tölt”.

THE SOUTH SHORE The south shore not only has some of Iceland’s most beautiful scenery, but it also has some of Iceland’s most diverse landscapes.

It’s no wonder that a tour that takes travellers past striking waterfalls, seemingly endless stretches of volcanic black sand beaches, and a quaint little local village called Vík, as well as offering people a chance to explore a glacier up close, comes heavily recommended.

WHALE WATCHING Observing the giants of the ocean is a profound experience you really shouldn’t miss. There are 23 species of whales in the ocean around Iceland, though some are more common than others. The largest whale you might spot is the Blue Whale – the largest mammal that ever lived. A full grown Blue reaches about 20-30 meters (65-100 ft.) in size, has a heart the size of a Mini Cooper, and a child could crawl through their major arteries like a tunnel. Even though it’s the middle of the winter, you can still book a whale watching tour straight from Reykjavík with a pickup service right to your hotel. Just make sure you’re dressed warmly and enjoy the ride! Varied tours available on www.whatson.is.

This guy wants to meet you this Christmas!

Your complete guide to Christmas in Iceland | 35

SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS PAST IN THE NATIONAL MUSEUM AND THE CULTURE HOUSE THE CULTURE HOUSE Iceland doesn’t have a lot of castles, but The Culture House at Hverfisgata is among the buildings that more than make up for it. The house in itself is a work of art, worthy of an exhibition. but it also houses a plethora of treasures. Among them, this December, is a festive exhibition of the wooden “Christmas trees” popular in Icelandic homes at the beginning of the 20th century. Due to the lack of trees in Iceland at the time, many people instead had a wooden “tree” that was decorated with juniper branches. Some of those trees now belong to the National Museum of Iceland and will be adorning the beautiful Culture House library.

THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ICELAND If you’re looking to add more Christmas themed events to your schedule, the Yule Lads will be stopping by the National Museum, one at a time, every day after they start arriving in town, Dec. 12th. They wear their traditional Icelandic costumes and sing and tell children (and adults) stories. It’s a great occasion to visit the museum, especially for families.

Families visiting the museum can also participate in the Christmas activity game, The Search for the Christmas Cat. The game is available in few languages and it’s a great opportunity to learn together about Icelandic heritage in an entertaining way.

For adults interested in Iceland’s cultural heritage. Dr. Terry Gunnell, head of Folkloristics at the University of Iceland will give an illustrated presentation in English, Saturday Dec. 19th, reviewing the beliefs and traditions of Icelandic Christmas in the past and present. The presentation starts at 12:00 at the National Museum of Iceland. Admission is free of charge.

The opening hours of all museums during the Christmas seasons are listed on p. 60.

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The Culture House Hverfisgata 15 101 Reykjavík

The exhibition, shop Closed on Mondays and café are open 16/9 – 30/4 daily 10 - 17

A journey through the visual world of Iceland 25. & 31. December a

10 – 14 : Special opening from

nd 1. January

Illuminated manuscripts, textiles, carvings, photographs, paintings and contemporary Icelandic art www.culturehouse.is The Culture House is part of the National Museum of Iceland

ADVENT AREAS AROUND TOWN Each December, Reykjavík is transformed into a magical Christmas city. There are fun Christmas events involving everything from culture to food, horse riding to sailing, singing to shopping all over the city, but some places are even more festive than others. Check out all the festive areas in the city and partake in our holiday joy!

ICE-SKATING AT INGÓLFSTORG SQUARE IN DECEMBER Where: Elliðavatn, 25 min. drive from downtown Reykjavík.

When: December 2nd-11th from 12:00 to 20:00; December 12th22nd from 12:00 to 22:00 & December 23rd 12:00-23:00.

Admission: Free The phone company NOVA has joined forces with SAMSUNG and REYKJAVÍK to open an ice-skating rink on Ingólfstorg Square on 1 December, which also marks the 8th birthday of

the phone company. In addition to the Ingólfstorg ice-skating rink, a Christmas village will be also located at Ingólfstorg Square surrounding the ice rink, where both refreshments and merchandise will be for sale. To keep everyone in the right spirit the square will have Christmas decorations, and Christmas songs will be played during opening hours.

CHRISTMAS VALLEY Where: Laugardalur When: All December, opening hours vary.

Admission: Fee in some places Further information: www.floran.is www.facebook.com/joladalur In December, the whole family can have fun together in Laugardalur Christmas Valley, where Christmas lights and decorations set the mood for a festive Advent.

Prepare for a day out, visiting the animals in Reykjavík Family Park and Zoo and ice-skating around a decorated Christmas tree at the Skautahöll skating-rink. If you’re

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in the valley, you might want to use the opportunity to visit Ásmundarsafn Sculpture Museum, walk around the Botanic Garden, stop by Flóran Café for a cup of hot chocolate, or go for a nice swim in Laugardalslaug thermalpool. Flóran Café has a Christmas buffet until Christmas, every Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

More information at: www.floran.is In Laugardalur Christmas Valley you might run into Jólakötturinn, the Yule Cat; one of many Icelandic Christmas Creatures. The cat resides in the Reykjavík Family Park and Zoo but sometimes

sneaks around in other parts of Laugardalur. Listen for a quiet meow and look out for paw tracks.

THE CHRISTMAS VILLAGE Where: Hafnarfjörður, 20 min from downtown Reykjavík with bus nr. 1 When: Opens on November 29th and is open on weekends from 12:00 to 17:00 until Christmas and from 18:00-21:00 on Tuesday 22nd and Wednesday 23rd December.

Admission: Free Further information: www.facebook.com/Jólaþorpið-íHafnarfirði-256025207766666 Hafnarfjörður - The Christmas Village has been evolving for years and has now reached a point where the whole downtown area of Hafnarfjörður becomes one big Christmas Village during Advent.

Hafnarfjörður residents and local companies will participate in making this year’s Christmas Village the biggest one yet. As usual, the Christmas houses on the Thorsplan plaza will house a Christmas market.

Your complete guide to Christmas in Iceland | 39

CHRISTMAS PROGRAM AT ÁRBÆR OPEN AIR MUSEUM Where: Árbær Open Air Museum, Kistuhyl, 110 Reykjavík When: Sundays December 6th, 13th and 20th from 13:00 to 17:00 Admission: 1400, under 18 and over 70 – free.

Further information: www.facebook.com/arbaejarsafn/ reykjavikcitymuseum.is Immerse yourself in the sights, smells and sounds of a traditional Icelandic Christmas at Árbær Open Air Museum. The ever popular Christmas program at Árbær Open Air Museum has become a fixture of the Reykjavík Christmas calendar. Visitors,

both young and old, will enjoy experiencing the Christmas preparations and the celebration of days gone by with activities including the preparation of traditional Icelandic Christmas food, and crafts, such as candle making. Watch out for those playful Yule Lads (traditional Icelandic Santa Clauses) who may peep through the windows or play tricks on guests. Traditional Christmas sweets will be on offer in the general store, hot chocolate at the Museum Café and much more. Free entry for those with a Reykjavik City Card.

WINTER WOODS AT THE CITY HALL Where: City All When: All December Admission: Free The Winter Woods this Christmas will be dedicated to women, as Icelanders are celebrating the 100th anniversary of Icelandic women’s right to vote, this year. There will be several Christmas events within the Winter Woods during Advent, which will be advertised at a later date.

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CHRISTMAS MARKET AT ELLIÐAVATNSBÆR IN HEIÐMÖRK Where: Elliðavatn, 25 min. drive from downtown Reykjavík When: Every Saturday and Sunday until Christmas from 11:00 to 16:00 Admission: Free Further information: www.facebook.com/heidmork/ www.heidmork.is The annual Crafts & Design Christmas market and the Christmas tree sale in Heiðmörk woods, located on the outskirts of Reykjavík, will be open every weekend from 28 November

until Christmas, from 11:00 – 16.00. There will be readings and concerts at the cafeteria every day, with accordion players and choirs. Each day at 14:00 a small bonfire will be lit outside and readings for children will take place. One of the Yule Lads might even stop by!

CHRISTMAS TREE FOREST AT HÓLMSHEIÐI Where: Hólmsheiði When: Every Saturday and Sunday until Christmas from 11:00 to 16:00 Admission: Free Further information: www.facebook.com/heidmork/ www.heidmork.is You can pick out and chop down your own Christmas tree in the forest. The Yule Lads are known to hang out in these parts of the forest! Hot cocoa will be served to those visiting the Christmas tree forest.

For each tree chopped, the Reykjavík forestry association plants 30 new trees.

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CHRISTMAS LAND AT NORDIC HOUSE

w

installation CHRISTMAS LAND. How would a person that has never seen Christmas recreate it? Visit the installation CHRISTMAS LAND and you will maybe get the answer.

Join the Hunt for the Christmas Creatures

Where: The Nordic House, Sturlugata 5, 101 Reykjavík When: Open every day from 12:00 to 17:00 Admission: Free Further information: www.nordichouse.is

CHRISTMAS CREATURES OF REYKJAVÍK AT HAFNARHUS IN DECEMBER

The Yule Lads are amongst some of the most curious Christmas Creatures of Icelandic folklore and are said to come down from the mountains every December to cause all sorts of havoc in the name of Advent.

A few human beings stumble from under yet another Ice-age.

One day one of them is walking about, trying to find something to eat. Under a frozen bush of berries the human finds a book. It describes ancient festivities. The human being doesn’t understand everything in the book but the main idea is a little bit like this: Clean virginal birth, half human birthday kid, a holy woman who’s in a relationship with a god but is also hanging out with a nice carpenter, smart triplets, multicolored boxes with bowes, children with a crazy look in their eyes, some kind of a light being, maybe an elf queen, red men with hats and bags, glitter, good atmosphere and cinnamon.

“Sounds good” thinks the human.

“I’m going to do something similar.”

Where: Hafnarhus Art Museum When: All December

All of the Christmas Creatures of Reykjavík City will be present at Reykjavík Art Museum, Hafnarhús, from 3 December. The main goal of the project is to create an inspiring Christmas experience in the city, for visitors and inhabitants alike.

An exciting game, ideal for family entertainment, “Search for the Christmas Creatures” will start after their appearance. To play, go to the Reykjavík Art Museum at Hafnarhús, City Hall or the Tourist Information Centre downtown at Adalstraeti 2 and get an answer slip. The last chance to play is Dec. 18 and the answer slips can be returned at the same locations. The winner will be announced Dec. 21 and will receive a prize.

Find out more about what´s all wrapped-up in Reykjavík this Christmas at www.christmas.visitreykjavik.is.

The artist behind The Nordic House Christmas calendar 2015, Lóa Hlín Hjálmtýsdóttir, has created the

Check out all the creatures at the Reykjavik Art Museum in Hafnarhús and then look for them on the walls of buildings in the city centre.

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Your complete guide to Christmas in Iceland | 43

THE ICELANDIC YULETIDE LADS Where: The National Museum of Iceland, Suðurgata 41 When: December 12th–24th at 11:00 Admission: Free Every day from December 12th until Christmas at 11 :00, one of the Icelandic Yule lads will visit the National Museum. The program is intended for children and is very popular with Icelandic families.

THE ICELANDIC YULE - AN ILLUSTRATED PRESENTATION Where: The National Museum of Iceland, Suðurgata 41 When: December 19th at 12:00 Admission: Free Dr. Terry Gunnell, Head of Folkloristics at the University of Iceland will give an illustrated presentation in English reviewing the beliefs and traditions of Icelandic Christmas traditions in the past and present.

languages. It is a great opportunity for families to learn together about Icelandic heritage in an entertaining way.

CHRISTMAS FAMILY ACTIVITY GAME

Where: Harpa When: Saturdays until Christmas at 13:00.

Admission: Free

Where: The National Museum of Iceland, Suðurgata 41 When: Daily in December between 11 and 17 Admission: 1200 ISK, free for children In December families are welcome to take part in the Christmas activity game at the National Museum of Iceland. The game, The Search for the Christmas Cat, is available in five

ADVENT AT HARPA

The Harpa music house offers a spectacle both inside and outside.

Harpa offers live music and other events in Harpa’s open spaces, for example, a concert by a children’s choir, a jazz concert for piano and guitar, a visit from the yule lads and the ever popular musical mouse, Maxímús Músíkús. All the events are free and family friendly.

CHRISTMAS HARBOUR Where: Reykjavík’s old Harbour, Ægisgarður, Grandi and Suðurbugt, When: December The Old Harbour welcomes guests from all around the world during the advent. Their aim is to share their Christmas spirit and give guests an insight into the Icelandic festivities

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and traditions. They’ve set the stage by decorating the area with great ambition and offer a range of activities in the run up to Christmas such as live music, markets and workshops. The restaurants in the area offer interesting menus with seasonal food and drink, unique to their styles and spirits, and the local artists and craftsmen have been busy preparing their collection for the coming Christmas shopping.

Their small shops and galleries are the ideal spot to browse for gifts and souvenirs. In the area you also have the option of taking on some adventures, by bike, boat or by visiting the educational cinemas in the harbour. Come and be touched by the magic of the festivities in the old harbour.

NORDIC HOUSE ANNUAL CHRISTMAS CALENDAR Where: The Nordic House, When: December 1st-23rd at 12:34 Admission: Free Further information: www.nordichouse.is The Christmas calendar in the Nordic House consists of daily events in the festival hall, every day in December until Christmas. The first window

of the calendar will be opened on December 1st, and will be kept secret until that day. The participating artists this year are among Iceland’s finest, but the order in which they perform will not be disclosed. The audience will be able to experience music, dance, reading, performances, yoga, or even games. There’s only one copy of the acutal calendar which will be found in the front hall of The Nordic House this December. Before every performance the audience is offerd non-alcoholic mulled wine and gingerbread.

CHRISTMAS STREET FOOD MARKET IN FÓGETAGARÐURINN Where: Fógetagarðurinn When: December 19th & 20th at 13:00 - 19:00 Admission: Free The Christmas Street Food Market will be hosted in Fógetagarðurinn on Saturday 19 December and Sunday 20 December. The market will be held inside a heated tent where representatives from various downtown restaurants in Reykjavík will offer delicious delicacies from their menus.

Your complete guide to Christmas in Iceland | 45

CHRISTMAS SHOPPING Reykjavík’s shopping districts offer endless possibilities when it comes to finding cool decorations, souvenirs, or that perfect Christmas present for your special someone.

The centre of Reykjavík has a host of specialty boutiques where you will most certainly find something unique. While the main shopping streets are Laugavegur and Skólavörðustígur, make sure you don’t forget the number of small shops and boutiques that are hidden in the area around the old harbour.

The Christmas Market in the centre of Reykjavík town is always a delight, as is the Christmas Village in the town of Hafnarfjörður, located 20 minutes from the centre of Reykjavík by car (bus no. 1).

ICELANDIC DESIGN If you’re looking to find a unique object, for a present or just for yourself as a souvenir, nothing beats getting an item by an Icelandic designer. Most Icelandic design is in a similar vein with the rest

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of Scandinavia, but more heavily influenced by Icelandic myths and the diverse natural phenomena to be found on the island. We recommend you stop at one of the many shops specialising in Icelandic design, such as Kraum or Hrím and picking up a Pyropet candle, a Herðubreið or a NotKnot pillow or one of the many other goods available.

WOOLEN WARMTH After living just under the Arctic Circle for centuries, Icelanders know how to keep warm. The secret is the Icelandic wool. Not only is it warm, but as an added bonus, it looks pretty darn good as well. There are all sorts of wool products available, everything from simple hats and mittens to the beautiful scarves and blankets by Vík Prjónsdóttir.

The most common one, however, is the “lopapeysa”, the Icelandic woollen sweater. The sweaters are all made from Icelandic wool and have a decorative border around the shoulders, but the designs and colours vary. Try the Farmer’s Market products for great design but if you’re looking for the classics, nothing beats The Icelandic Handknitting Association.

FASHION AND STYLE Even if you’re only in town for a short while, you’re bound to notice that Icelanders are a stylish nation.

Fashion is an art form in Iceland and it is hard not to be drawn into the stores while window-shopping.

Icelandic designers have been making waves domestically and abroad for several years, and many have now set up their own boutiques in the Laugavegur / Skólavörðustígur area. What better souvenir or present to take home than a unique fashion item that will turn heads wherever you go? Try stopping at Jör, Aftur, Kiosk, Kormákur and Skjöldur’s menswear shop or just

any of the shops that catch your eye downtown. As an added bonus, a new garment will keep you safe from the mythological Yule Cat that preys on people who don’t have new clothes for Christmas.

Your complete guide to Christmas in Iceland | 47

THE GREAT OUTDOORS Wool is traditional for keeping warm, but as the times have changed, Icelanders have also developed more modern ways to brave the cold. The weather in Iceland is probably unmatched as an incentive to develop great protective clothing. 66°N, whose flagship store at Bankastræti is unmissable, first started out in 1926 making protective clothing for Icelandic fishermen that went out on tiny boats in all sorts of weather. For them, their clothing could mean the difference between life and death.

There may be places where the weather is colder, but few of them

can match the unpredictability of the Icelandic weather. Try an “úlpa”, an Icelandic parka, while you’re in Iceland. It will make sure you’ll never get cold again.

ONE STOP CHRISTMAS SHOP Icelanders loooove Christmas.

They love it so much they have a special store, the Little Christmas Shop, open all year round, catering exclusively to all their Christmassy needs. Christmas enthusiasts can visit spring, summer, winter and fall, but of course, December is the most exciting month of the year at this holiday boutique. Everything you could possibly need for Christmas is available at the Little Christmas Shop, decorations, gift wrap, candy, as well as a healthy dose of Christmas cheer!

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FROSTY JEWELRY Iceland’s arts and crafts scene is proof positive that the colder the climate, the more creative the people. Our jewellery designers each have their own distinctive flair – some choosing to turn out bold, raw, chunky pieces, while others prefer ornaments as delicate and fragile as flowers in a black Icelandic desert. Whatever your personal preference, you are sure to find something to delight or impress.

in Iceland’s pristine nature. A vast selection of domestically produced cosmetics and beauty products now exists, available in gift-, health- and tourist shops. As a gift for a special someone or just as a treat for yourself, it’s hard to go wrong with a health or beauty product from the Icelandic nature. Check out brands like BlueLagoon, Villimey, Sóley and SIF Cosmetics.

HEALTH AND BEAUTY A new organic awareness is currently sweeping the Icelandic nation, manifesting in a wave of new products made from herbs gathered

ÞORLÁKSMESSA

THE DAY BEFORE CHRISTMAS On December 23rd shops stay open until 23:00 and families flock to the centre of Reykjavík. Laugavegur is closed to traffic and bars and cafés are packed with people imbibing some Christmas cheer with their friends and loved ones. Most people have finished their Christmas preparations by then, though there are always a few still running from shop to shop, desperately trying to lay their hands on those perfect presents.

Your complete guide to Christmas in Iceland | 49

SHOPPING SCHEDULE LAUGAVEGUR & THE DOWNTOWN AREA

SMÁRALIND

December 12th

11-22

December 13th

13-18

December 19th

10-22

December 20th

13-22

December 23rd

10-23

December 24th

10-12

December 25th-26th December 31st January 1st

Closed 10-12 Closed

Please note that information about opening hours is subject to change.

December 12th 11-22 December 13th 13-22 December 14th-22nd 11-22 December 23rd 11-23 December 24th 10-13 December 25th-26th Closed December 31st 10-13 January 1st Closed

KOLAPORTIÐ FLEA MARKET Weekends 11:00-17:00

KRINGLAN December 12th 10-22 December 13th 13-22 December 14th-22nd 10-22 December 23rd 10-23 December 24th 10-13 December 25th-26th Closed December 31st 10-13 January 1st Closed

TAX-FREE SHOPPING Don’t forget, when you buy merchandise that costs 4.000 ISK or more, you’ll get 15% off. Claim your refund at Keflavik Intl. Airport.

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PERFECT BEGINNING OF A GREAT EVENING AT RESTAURANT MAR Restaurant MAR is located only few meters away from departure point for Elding tours.

In December special X-mas menu.

15% discount

at MAR if you take a Cruise with Elding!

Open all December.

FESTIVE AND DELICIOUS

Reykjavik Old Harbour I 00354 519 5050 I mar@mar.is

HOLIDAY OPENINGS Icelanders are pretty serious about their Christmas celebrations and people like to spend quality time with family and friends so consequently things tend to slow down a little. In an effort to make life a little easier for those of you who are spending the holidays in Iceland, we have put together a list of available services on those days when most places are closed.

RESTAURANTS DECEMBER 24TH - OPEN FOR LUNCH Bergsson mathús..............................................Templarasundi 3..............................................571 1822 Bsí Bistro - Fljótt og gott ............................ BSÍ Bus Terminal ..........................................552 1288 C for Cookie................................................................Týsgötu 8...................................................578 5914 Café Haiti....................................................................Geirsgata 7b .............................................588 8484 Café Mezzo.............................................................Lækjargata 2a ..............................................571 3150 Café Paris................................................................Austurstræti 14 .............................................551 1020 Coocoo’s Nest....................................................Grandagarður 28..........................................552 5454 Sandholt..................................................................Laugavegur 36............................................. 551 3524 Sky Restaurant.......................................................Ingólfsstræti 1.............................................595 8540 Smurstöðin.......................................................................Harpa.......................................................519 9750

DECEMBER 24TH - OPEN FOR DINNER Bambus......................................................................Borgartúni 16................................................517 0123 Borg Restaurant ............................................... Pósthússtræti 11........................................... 578 2020 Ísafold...................................................................Þingholtsstræti 3-5........................................595 8535 Kjallarinn..................................................................... Aðalstræti 2.................................................517 7373 Mar - Restaurant.....................................................Geirsgata 9................................................519 5050 Restaurant Reykjavik...........................................Vesturgata 2 .............................................552 3030 Skólabrú..................................................................Pósthússtræti 17..............................................511 1690 Steikhúsið............................................................. Tryggvagata 4-6................................................561 1111

DECEMBER 24TH - OPEN FOR LUNCH AND DINNER Ali Baba......................................................................Veltusund 3b ............................................445 4445 Babalú..................................................................Skólavörðustígur 22.......................................555 8845 Fjalakötturinn ........................................... Hotel Reykjavík Centrum ................................514 6060 Frederiksen Ale House.....................................Hafnarstræti 5............................................. 571 0055 Grand Restaurant.....................................................Sigtúni 38..................................................514 8080 Hamborgarabúllan.................................................Geirsgata 1.................................................... 511 1888 Ramen Momo.......................................................Tryggvagata 16............................................ 571 0646 Red Chili................................................................. Laugavegur 176..........................................562 6000 Restaurant 1919....................................................Pósthússtræti 2 ...........................................599 1050 Satt - Hotel Reykjavik Natura..............Hótel Reykjavík Natura .................................444 4050 Skrúður......................................................................... Hagatorgi 1.................................................525 9970 Slippbarinn Hotel Marina...................................Mýrargata 2..............................................560 8080 Sæmundur í sparifötunum ...............................Kex Hostel.................................................561 6060

Please note that information about opening hours is subject to change.

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DECEMBER 25TH - OPEN FOR LUNCH Bergsson mathús..............................................Templarasundi 3..............................................571 1822

DECEMBER 25TH - OPEN FOR DINNER Apótek......................................................................Austurstræti 16...............................................551 0011 Bambus......................................................................Borgartúni 16................................................517 0123 Borg Restaurant ............................................... Pósthússtræti 11........................................... 578 2020 Ísafold...................................................................Þingholtsstræti 3-5........................................595 8535 Kjallarinn..................................................................... Aðalstræti 2.................................................517 7373 Lækjarbrekka..........................................................Bankastræti 2..............................................551 4430 Mar - Restaurant.....................................................Geirsgata 9................................................519 5050 Public House.........................................................Laugavegur 24............................................555 7333 Restaurant Reykjavik...........................................Vesturgata 2 .............................................552 3030 Sky Restaurant .....................................................Ingólfsstræti 1.............................................595 8540 Steikhúsið............................................................. Tryggvagata 4-6................................................561 1111 Torfan (Gamla Humarhúsið)......................Amtmannsstigur 1 .........................................561 3303

DECEMBER 25TH - OPEN FOR LUNCH AND DINNER Ali Baba......................................................................Veltusund 3b ............................................445 4445 American Bar......................................................Austurstræti 8-10...........................................571 9999 Babalú..................................................................Skólavörðustígur 22.......................................555 8845 Bsí Bistro - Fljótt og gott ............................ BSÍ Bus Terminal ..........................................552 1288 Café Paris................................................................Austurstræti 14 .............................................551 1020 Fjalakötturinn ........................................... Hotel Reykjavík Centrum ................................514 6060 Grand Restaurant.....................................................Sigtúni 38..................................................514 8080 Hamborgarabúllan.................................................Geirsgata 1.................................................... 511 1888 Ramen Momo.......................................................Tryggvagata 16............................................ 571 0646 Red Chili................................................................. Laugavegur 176..........................................562 6000 Restaurant 1919....................................................Pósthússtræti 2 ...........................................599 1050 Satt - Hotel Reykjavik Natura..............Hótel Reykjavík Natura .................................444 4050 Skrúður......................................................................... Hagatorgi 1.................................................525 9970 Slippbarinn Hotel Marina...................................Mýrargata 2..............................................560 8080 Sæmundur í sparifötunum ...............................Kex Hostel.................................................561 6060

DECEMBER 26TH - OPEN FOR LUNCH Bergsson mathús..............................................Templarasundi 3..............................................571 1822 Smurstöðin.......................................................................Harpa.......................................................519 9750

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DECEMBER 26TH - OPEN FOR DINNER Bambus......................................................................Borgartúni 16................................................517 0123 Borg Restaurant ............................................... Pósthússtræti 11........................................... 578 2020 Dill Restaurant....................................................... Hverfisgata 12...............................................552 1522 Fishmarket................................................................Aðalstræti 12 .............................................. 578 8877 Fjörukráin.................................................................Strandgata 55............................................... 565 1213 Gallery Restaurant-Hotel Holt.................Bergstaðastræti 37.........................................5525700 Gandhi.....................................................................Pósthússtræti 17................................................511 1691 Geysir bistro............................................................. Aðalstræti 2...............................................517 4300 Grillmarkaðurinn..................................................Lækjargata 2a ..............................................571 7777 Hverfisgata ............................................................ Hverfisgata 12............................................437 0203 Íslenski Barinn...................................................... Ingólfsstræti 1a..............................................517 6767 Kjallarinn..................................................................... Aðalstræti 2.................................................517 7373 Kol......................................................................... Skólavörðustígur 40.........................................517 7474 Kopar.............................................................................Geirsgata 3............................................... 567 2700 Mar - Restaurant.....................................................Geirsgata 9................................................519 5050 Mikkeler & Friends.............................................. Hverfisgata 12............................................437 0203 Potturinn og Pannan.......................................Pósthússtræti 17 .............................................511 1690 Primo........................................................................Þingholtsstræti 1..........................................553 4200 Restaurant Reykjavik...........................................Vesturgata 2 .............................................552 3030 Scandinavian........................................................Laugavegur 22a...........................................578 4888 Sjávargrillið........................................................Skólavörðustígur 14..........................................571 1100 Skólabrú..................................................................Pósthússtræti 17..............................................511 1690 Tapasbarinn.............................................................Vesturgata 3b .............................................551 2344 Torfan (Gamla Humarhúsið)......................Amtmannsstigur 1 .........................................561 3303

DECEMBER 26TH - OPEN FOR LUNCH AND DINNER Ali Baba......................................................................Veltusund 3b ............................................445 4445 American Bar......................................................Austurstræti 8-10...........................................571 9999 Apótek......................................................................Austurstræti 16...............................................551 0011 Babalú..................................................................Skólavörðustígur 22.......................................555 8845 Bryggjan Brugghús..........................................Grandagarður 8.........................................456 4040 Bsí Bistro - Fljótt og gott ............................ BSÍ Bus Terminal ..........................................552 1288 Bunk...........................................................................Laugavegur 28............................................578 3730 Café Haiti....................................................................Geirsgata 7b .............................................588 8484 Café Mezzo.............................................................Lækjargata 2a ..............................................571 3150 Café Paris................................................................Austurstræti 14 .............................................551 1020 Caruso.......................................................................Austurstræti 22............................................562 7335 Einar Ben.....................................................................Veltusundi 1................................................. 511 5090 Fjalakötturinn ........................................... Hotel Reykjavík Centrum ................................514 6060 Forréttabarinn......................................................Nýlendugata 14............................................. 517 1800 Frederiksen Ale House.....................................Hafnarstræti 5............................................. 571 0055 Grand Restaurant.....................................................Sigtúni 38..................................................514 8080 Grillhúsið.................................................................Tryggvagata 20..........................................527 5000 Hamborgarabúllan.................................................Geirsgata 1.................................................... 511 1888 Hornið Restaurant.............................................Hafnarstræti 15 ........................................... 551 3340 Ísafold...................................................................Þingholtsstræti 3-5........................................595 8535 Le Bistro...................................................................Laugavegur 12..............................................551 5979 Lækjarbrekka..........................................................Bankastræti 2..............................................551 4430 Matur & drykkur................................................. Grandagarður 2.............................................571 8877 Ramen Momo.......................................................Tryggvagata 16............................................ 571 0646 Red Chili................................................................. Laugavegur 176..........................................562 6000 Restaurant 1919....................................................Pósthússtræti 2 ...........................................599 1050 Satt - Hotel Reykjavik Natura..............Hótel Reykjavík Natura .................................444 4050 Skrúður......................................................................... Hagatorgi 1.................................................525 9970 Slippbarinn Hotel Marina...................................Mýrargata 2..............................................560 8080 Sólon Bistro & Bar..............................................Bankastræti 7a............................................562 3232 Sæmundur í sparifötunum ...............................Kex Hostel.................................................561 6060 Vegamót.................................................................Vegamótastíg 4 ...........................................511 3040

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Christmas

at The English Pub

Live M Music usiic Every Night And Live Football All Christmas Christm istm mas

Open on Christmas day ffrom 15.00 – 01.00 and on 26 December from 11.00 – 04.30

New w Years Y Eve Party att T The he English Pub! No Entrance Fee! Open all day

AUSTURSTRÆTI 12 • 101 REYKJAVÍK • TEL. 578 0400 ENSKIBARINN@ENSKIBARINN.IS

DECEMBER 31ST - OPEN FOR LUNCH Babalú..................................................................Skólavörðustígur 22.......................................555 8845 Bergsson mathús..............................................Templarasundi 3..............................................571 1822 Bunk...........................................................................Laugavegur 28............................................578 3730 C for Cookie................................................................Týsgötu 8...................................................578 5914 Café Haiti....................................................................Geirsgata 7b .............................................588 8484 Café Loki.....................................................................Lokastíg 28............................................... 466 2828 Café Mezzo.............................................................Lækjargata 2a ..............................................571 3150 Café Paris................................................................Austurstræti 14 .............................................551 1020 Coocoo’s Nest....................................................Grandagarður 28..........................................552 5454 Hamborgarabúllan.................................................Geirsgata 1.................................................... 511 1888 Lækjarbrekka..........................................................Bankastræti 2..............................................551 4430 Perlan...............................................................................Öskjuhlíð..................................................562 0200 Smurstöðin.......................................................................Harpa.......................................................519 9750

DECEMBER 31ST - OPEN FOR DINNER Apótek......................................................................Austurstræti 16...............................................551 0011 Borg Restaurant ............................................... Pósthússtræti 11........................................... 578 2020 Dill Restaurant....................................................... Hverfisgata 12...............................................552 1522 Fishcompany......................................................... Vesturgata 2a ...........................................552 5300 Ítalía............................................................................. Laugavegur 11.............................................552 4630 Kjallarinn..................................................................... Aðalstræti 2.................................................517 7373 Kol......................................................................... Skólavörðustígur 40.........................................517 7474 Kopar.............................................................................Geirsgata 3............................................... 567 2700 Mikkeler & Friends.............................................. Hverfisgata 12............................................437 0203 Restaurant Reykjavik...........................................Vesturgata 2 .............................................552 3030 Sjávargrillið........................................................Skólavörðustígur 14..........................................571 1100 Skólabrú..................................................................Pósthússtræti 17..............................................511 1690 Sólon Bistro & Bar..............................................Bankastræti 7a............................................562 3232 Steikhúsið............................................................. Tryggvagata 4-6................................................561 1111 Sushisamba.........................................................Þingholtsstræti 5........................................ 568 6600 Tapasbarinn.............................................................Vesturgata 3b .............................................551 2344 Torfan (Gamla Humarhúsið)......................Amtmannsstigur 1 .........................................561 3303

DECEMBER 31ST - OPEN FOR LUNCH AND DINNER American Bar......................................................Austurstræti 8-10...........................................571 9999 Bambus......................................................................Borgartúni 16................................................517 0123 Bsí Bistro - Fljótt og gott ............................ BSÍ Bus Terminal ..........................................552 1288 Caruso.......................................................................Austurstræti 22............................................562 7335 Einar Ben.....................................................................Veltusundi 1................................................. 511 5090 Fjalakötturinn ........................................... Hotel Reykjavík Centrum ................................514 6060 Grand Restaurant.....................................................Sigtúni 38..................................................514 8080 Hverfisgata 12 ....................................................... Hverfisgata 12............................................437 0203 Íslenski Barinn...................................................... Ingólfsstræti 1a..............................................517 6767 Le Bistro...................................................................Laugavegur 12..............................................551 5979 Mar - Restaurant.....................................................Geirsgata 9................................................519 5050 Public House.........................................................Laugavegur 24............................................555 7333 Red Chili................................................................. Laugavegur 176..........................................562 6000 Restaurant 1919....................................................Pósthússtræti 2 ...........................................599 1050 Satt - Hotel Reykjavik Natura..............Hótel Reykjavík Natura .................................444 4050 Skrúður......................................................................... Hagatorgi 1.................................................525 9970 Sky Restaurant - ..................................................Ingólfsstræti 1.............................................595 8540 Slippbarinn Hotel Marina...................................Mýrargata 2..............................................560 8080 Sæmundur í sparifötunum ...............................Kex Hostel.................................................561 6060

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JANUARY 1ST - OPEN FOR LUNCH AND DINNER Bergsson mathús..............................................Templarasundi 3..............................................571 1822 Lækjarbrekka..........................................................Bankastræti 2..............................................551 4430

JANUARY 1ST - OPEN FOR DINNER Apótek......................................................................Austurstræti 16...............................................551 0011 Bambus......................................................................Borgartúni 16................................................517 0123 Borg Restaurant ............................................... Pósthússtræti 11........................................... 578 2020 Dill Restaurant....................................................... Hverfisgata 12...............................................552 1522 Fishmarket................................................................Aðalstræti 12 .............................................. 578 8877 Geysir bistro............................................................. Aðalstræti 2...............................................517 4300 Grillmarkaðurinn..................................................Lækjargata 2a ..............................................571 7777 Íslenski Barinn...................................................... Ingólfsstræti 1a..............................................517 6767 Kjallarinn..................................................................... Aðalstræti 2.................................................517 7373 Kol......................................................................... Skólavörðustígur 40.........................................517 7474 Kopar.............................................................................Geirsgata 3............................................... 567 2700 Mar - Restaurant.....................................................Geirsgata 9................................................519 5050 Perlan...............................................................................Öskjuhlíð..................................................562 0200 Public House.........................................................Laugavegur 24............................................555 7333 Restaurant Reykjavik...........................................Vesturgata 2 .............................................552 3030 Scandinavian........................................................Laugavegur 22a...........................................578 4888 Sjávargrillið........................................................Skólavörðustígur 14..........................................571 1100 Sólon Bistro & Bar..............................................Bankastræti 7a............................................562 3232 Steikhúsið............................................................. Tryggvagata 4-6................................................561 1111 Sushisamba.........................................................Þingholtsstræti 5........................................ 568 6600 Tapasbarinn.............................................................Vesturgata 3b .............................................551 2344 Torfan (Gamla Humarhúsið)......................Amtmannsstigur 1 .........................................561 3303

JANUARY 1ST - OPEN FOR LUNCH AND DINNER American Bar......................................................Austurstræti 8-10...........................................571 9999 Babalú..................................................................Skólavörðustígur 22.......................................555 8845 Bryggjan Brugghús..........................................Grandagarður 8.........................................456 4040 Bsí Bistro - Fljótt og gott ............................ BSÍ Bus Terminal ..........................................552 1288 Café Paris................................................................Austurstræti 14 .............................................551 1020 Caruso.......................................................................Austurstræti 22............................................562 7335 Fjalakötturinn ........................................... Hotel Reykjavík Centrum ................................514 6060 Forréttabarinn......................................................Nýlendugata 14............................................. 517 1800 Grand Restaurant.....................................................Sigtúni 38..................................................514 8080 Hamborgarabúllan.................................................Geirsgata 1.................................................... 511 1888 Le Bistro...................................................................Laugavegur 12..............................................551 5979 Red Chili................................................................. Laugavegur 176..........................................562 6000 Restaurant 1919....................................................Pósthússtræti 2 ...........................................599 1050 Road House...........................................................Snorrabraut 56............................................571 4200 Satt - Hotel Reykjavik Natura..............Hótel Reykjavík Natura .................................444 4050 Skrúður......................................................................... Hagatorgi 1.................................................525 9970 Sky Restaurant .....................................................Ingólfsstræti 1.............................................595 8540 Slippbarinn Hotel Marina...................................Mýrargata 2..............................................560 8080 Smurstöðin.......................................................................Harpa.......................................................519 9750 Sæmundur í sparifötunuml................................Kex Hostel.................................................561 6060

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MUSEUM OPENINGS DECEMBER 23RD Aurora Reykjavik......................................................................................................09:00-21:00 Árbæjarsafn - Open Air Museum .......................................................... Guided tour 13:00 Hafnarborg...................................................................................................... Open 12:00-17:00 Hellisheiði geothermal power plant ................................................................. 09:00-17:00 Kópavogur Art Museum - Gerðarsafn ...........................................................................Open Nordic House ..........................................................................................................................Open Reykjavík Art Museum - Ásmundarsafn ...........................................................13:00-17:00 Reykjavík Art Museum - Hafnarhúsið ............................................................... 10:00-17:00 Reykjavík Art Museum - Kjarvalsstaðir ............................................................ 10:00-17:00 Reykjavík Museum of Photography .................................................................. 12:00-19:00 The Culture House ................................................................................................................Open The Einar Jónsson museum ..............................................................................................Open The Maritime Museum ............................................................................................ 10:00-17:00 The National Gallery ............................................................................................... 11:00 - 17:00 The National Museum ...............................................................................................11:00-17:00 The Phallological Museum ......................................................................................11:00-18:00 The Settlement Exhibition ................................................................................. 09:00-20:00 The Volcano House.................................................................................................. 10:00-22:00

DECEMBER 24TH Aurora Reykjavik......................................................................................................09:00-16:00 Hellisheiði geothermal power plant ................................................................. 09:00-12:00 The National Museum ...............................................................................................11:00-12:00 The Settlement Exhibition ...................................................................................09:00-14:00 The Volcano House................................................................................................... 10:00-17:00

DECEMBER 25TH The Culture House ...................................................................................................10:00-14:00 The National Museum .............................................................................................10:00-14:00 The Volcano House................................................................................................... 10:00-17:00

DECEMBER 26TH Aurora Reykjavik......................................................................................................09:00-21:00 Hellisheiði geothermal power plant ................................................................. 09:00-12:00 Reykjavík Art Museum - Ásmundarsafn ...........................................................13:00-17:00 Reykjavík Art Museum - Hafnarhúsið ................................................................13:00-17:00 Reykjavík Art Museum - Kjarvalsstaðir .............................................................13:00-17:00 The Culture House ................................................................................................... 10:00-17:00 The Maritime Museum ............................................................................................ 10:00-17:00 The National Museum ............................................................................................. 10:00-17:00 The Phallological Museum ..................................................................................... 11:00-16:00 The Settlement Exhibition ................................................................................... 12:00-20:00 The Volcano House................................................................................................... 10:00-17:00

DECEMBER 31ST Aurora Reykjavik......................................................................................................09:00-16:00 Hellisheiði geothermal power plant ................................................................. 09:00-12:00 Árbæjarsafn - Open Air Museum .......................................................... Guided tour 13:00 Reykjavík Art Museum - Hafnarhúsið ...............................................................10:00-14:00 Reykjavík Museum of Photography ..................................................................10:00-14:00 The Culture House ...................................................................................................10:00-14:00 The Einar Jónsson museum .................................................................................10:00-14:00 The Maritime Museum ............................................................................................10:00-14:00 The National Museum .............................................................................................10:00-14:00 The Phallological Museum ..................................................................................... 11:00-16:00 The Settlement Exhibition ...................................................................................09:00-14:00 The Volcano House................................................................................................... 10:00-17:00

JANUARY 1ST Aurora Reykjavik......................................................................................................09:00-21:00 Reykjavík Art Museum - Hafnarhúsið ................................................................13:00-17:00 The Culture House ...................................................................................................10:00-14:00 The National Museum .............................................................................................10:00-14:00 The Settlement Exhibition ................................................................................... 12:00-20:00 The Volcano House...................................................................................................12:00-22:00

60 | Reykjavik Christmas Guide | www.christmasiniceland.is

www.reykjavikcitymuseum.is

CHECK OUT THE NEW

REYKJAVÍK CITY MUSEUM C O M P R I S I N G 5 TO P M U S E U M S :

Árbær Open Air Musem

The Settlement Exhibition

Reykjavík Maritime Museum

Viðey Island

Reykjavík Museum of Photography

More information in the holiday event calendar.

THERMAL POOLS Nothing beats a soak in the hot tub in the winter darkness with steam wafting up from the geothermal heated water and the stars twinkling above.

Sure, it can take a bit of effort to run out into the cold, wearing only your swimsuit, but once you’re immersed in that silky warm water it is completely worth it. The capital area boasts 16 public pools that are open almost every day during the holidays. The largest of the pools, Laugardalslaug, is only closed for one day during the Christmas season.

Here are the opening hours of the ones in Reykjavík during the holidays.

ÁRBÆJARLAUG December 23th...................06:30-18:00 December 24th...................08:00-12:30 December 25th..............................Closed December 26th....................12:00-18:00 December 31st.....................08:00-12:30 January 1st........................................Closed

BREIÐHOLTSLAUG December 23th...................06:30-18:00 December 24th...................08:00-12:30 December 25th-26th...................Closed December 31st.....................08:00-12:30 January 1st........................................Closed

GRAFARVOGSLAUG December 23th...................06:30-18:00 December 24th...................08:00-12:30 December 25th-26th...................Closed December 31st.....................08:00-12:30 January 1st........................................Closed

KLÉBERGSLAUG December 23th..................... 11:00-15:00 December 24th.................... 10:00-12:30 December 25th-26th...................Closed December 31st...................... 10:00-12:30 January 1st........................................Closed

LAUGARDALSLAUG December 23th...................06:30-18:00 December 24th...................08:00-12:30 December 25th..............................Closed December 26th....................12:00-18:00 December 31st.....................08:00-12:30 January 1st..............................12:00-18:00

SUNDHÖLLIN December 23th...................06:30-18:00 December 24th...................08:00-12:30 December 25th-26th...................Closed December 31st.....................08:00-12:30 January 1st........................................Closed

VESTURBÆJARLAUG December 23th...................06:30-18:00 December 24th...................08:00-12:30 December 25th-26th...................Closed December 31st.....................08:00-12:30 January 1st........................................Closed

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CHRISTMAS CONCERTS IN DECEMBER IN REYKJAVÍK AND NEIGHBOURHOOD DECEMBER 3RD

DECEMBER 5TH

Advent at the Symphony 19:30 @ Harpa Admission: 2400-6900 kr.

The Hallgrimskirkja Motet Choir Christmas Concert 17:00 @ Hallgrímskirkja Admission: 2500 kr.

Thursday

DECEMBER 4TH Friday

Advent Concert with Schola Cantorum 12:00 @ Hallgrímskirkja Admission: 2500 kr.

Sigga Beinteins’ Annual Christmas Concert 20:00 @ Harpa

Saturday

Baggalútur’s Christmas Concert 17:00/21:00 @ Háskólabíó Admission: 7990 kr.

Sigga Beinteins’ Annual Christmas Concert 20:00 @ Harpa KK & Ellen’s Christmas Concert 21:00 @ Hlégarður Admission: 5990 kr.

64 | Reykjavik Christmas Guide | www.christmasiniceland.is

DECEMBER 6TH Sunday

The Hallgrimskirkja Motet Choir Christmas Concert 17:00 @ Hallgrímskirkja Admission: 2500 kr.

Baggalútur’s Christmas Concert 17:00/21:00 @ Háskólabíó Admission: 7990 kr.

Kristján Jóhannsson’s Christmas Concert 20:00 @ Harpa Admission: 4900-10900 kr.

DECEMBER 7TH Monday

Filadelphia’s Christmas Concert 19:00/21:00 @ Hvítasunnukirkjan Admission: 5900 kr.

DECEMBER 9TH

DECEMBER 8TH

Borgardætur’s Christmas Concert 21:00 @ Café Rósenberg Admission: 5300 kr.

Tuesday

The Hallgrimskirkja Motet Choir Christmas Concert 20:00 @ Hallgrímskirkja Admission: 2500 kr.

Kúnstpása – The Opera in the advent 12:25 @ Harpa Admission: 1500 kr.

Wednesday

DECEMBER 10TH Thursday

Borgardætur’s Christmas Concert 21:00 @ Café Rósenberg Admission: 5300 kr.

DECEMBER 11TH

Borgardætur’s Christmas Concert 21:00 @ Café Rósenberg Admission: 5300 kr.

Filadelphia’s Christmas Concert 19:00/21:00 @ Hvítasunnukirkjan Admission: 5900 kr

Friday

Advent Concert with Schola Cantorum 12:00 @ Hallgrímskirkja Admission: 2500 kr.

Baggalútur’s Christmas Concert 17:00/21:00 @ Háskólabíó Admission: 7990 kr.

Christmas in the Living Room 21:00 @ Gamla Bíó Admission: 5990 kr.

Something Beautiful 20:00/22:30 @ Fríkirkjan Admission: 3500 kr.

KK & Ellen’s Christmas Concert 21:00 @ Hljómahöllin Admission: 5990 kr.

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TRY SOMETHING DIFFERENT THIS CHRISTMAS

CREATE YOUR ADVENTURE AT WHAT’S ON TOURIST INFORMATION AND BOOKING CENTRE, LAUGAVEGI 4.

LAUGAVEGUR 4, REYKJAVIK | WWW.WHATSON.IS

DECEMBER 12TH Saturday

The Reykjavik Male Choir’s Annual Advent Concert 17:00 @ Hallgrímskirkja Admission: 4900 kr.

Christmas at the Symphony 14:00/16:00 @ Harpa Admission: 2100-2700 kr.

Baggalútur’s Christmas Concert 17:00/21:00 @ Háskólabíó Admission: 7990 kr.

Christmas Concert of Fóstbræður Male Choir 2015 17:00 @ Harpa Admission: 3500 kr

DECEMBER 13TH Sunday

Christmas at the Symphony 14:00/16:00 @ Harpa Admission: 2100-2700 kr.

Baggalútur’s Christmas Concert 17:00/21:00 @ Háskólabíó Admission: 7990 kr.

The Reykjavik Male Choir’s Annual Advent Concert 17:00/20:00 @ Hallgrímskirkja Admission: 4900 kr.

DECEMBER 14TH Monday

KK & Ellen’s Christmas Concert 21:00 @ Fríkirkjan Admission: 5990 kr.

DECEMBER 15TH Tuesday

Borgardætur’s Christmas Concert 21:00 @ Café Rósenberg Admission: 5300 kr.

DECEMBER 17TH Thursday

Mahalia Jackson Christmas Songs 20:00 @ Fríkirkjan Admission: 3900 kr.

Sigríður Thorlacius & Sigurður Guðmundsson - Festival Concert 14:00/16:00 @ Harpa Admission: 4990-8990 kr.

Borgardætur’s Christmas Concert 21:00 @ Café Rósenberg Admission: 5300 kr.

DECEMBER 16TH Wednesday

Jazz before Christmas 20:00 @ Hallgrímskirkja Admission: Free

Borgardætur’s Christmas Concert 21:00 @ Café Rósenberg Admission: 5300 kr.

Xmas 2015 20:00 @ Hlégarður Admission: 977 kr.

Your complete guide to Christmas in Iceland | 67

DECEMBER 18TH Friday

Hljómfélagið Christmas Concert 20:00 @ Neskirkja Admission: 2500 kr.

Advent Concert with Schola Cantorum 12:00 @ Hallgrímskirkja Admission: 2500 kr.

Baggalútur’s Christmas Concert 17:00/21:00 @ Háskólabíó Admission: 7990 kr.

KK & Ellen’s Christmas Concert 21:00 @ Bæjarbíó Admission: 5990 kr.

DECEMBER 19TH Saturday

Mozart By Candlelight 21:00 @ Hafnafjarðakirkja Admission: 1500-2500 kr.

Baggalútur’s Christmas Concert 17:00/21:00 @ Háskólabíó Admission: 7990 kr.

KK & Ellen’s Christmas Concert 21:00 @ Bæjarbíó Admission: 5990 kr.

DECEMBER 20TH Sunday

Mozart By Candlelight 21:00 @ Kópavogskirkja Admission: 1500-2500 kr.

KK & Ellen’s Christmas Concert 21:00 @ Grafarvogskirkja Admission: 5990 kr.

Baggalútur’s Christmas Concert 17:00/21:00 @ Háskólabíó Admission: 7990 kr.

DECEMBER 21ST Monday

Mozart By Candlelight 21:00 @ Garðakirkja Admission: 1500-2500 kr.

KK & Ellen’s Christmas Concert 21:00 @ Háskólabíó Admission: 5990 kr.

68 | Reykjavik Christmas Guide | www.christmasiniceland.is

FISH COMPANY “SLEIGH RIDE”

Invite your taste buds on a wonderful Sleigh ride through a magical winter-land. Let our chefs take the reigns as we search for the perfect seasonal flavor along with our little kitchen ELVES and TROLLS.

7 course menu Slow Cooked Cod

Duck and Smoked Pork

Kale – Apples – Cod Roe

Beer – Hazelnut – Burre Noisette

Cured Goose & Beef

Snow

Caramelized Skyr – Jerusalem Artichokes – Sorrel

Apples – Cinnamon – White Chocolate

Scallops

Warm Chocolate Tarte

Horseradish – Spruce – Juniper

Dark Chocolate – Berries – Milk

Fresh Skate & Langoustine

(ONLY SERVED FOR THE WHOLE TABLE)

Turnips – Potatoes – Dill

FISHCOMPANY - Vesturgötu 2a - 101 Reykjavík - 552-5300 - info@FISHCOMPANY.is - WWW.FISHCOMPANY.is

DECEMBER 22ND Tuesday

Mozart By Candlelight 21:00 @ Dómkirkjan in Reykjavik Admission: 1500-2500 kr Arnar Friðriks’ Christmas Concert @ Íslenski Barinn

DECEMBER 23RD Tuesday

Opera Divas in Downtown Reykjavík 20:00 @ The Balcony above Caruso Admission: Free

DECEMBER 27TH Sunday

The Birth of the Saviour – An Organ Concert 17:00 @ Hallgrímskirkja Admission: 2500 kr.

DECEMBER 28TH Monday

DECEMBER 30TH Wednesday

Pearls of Icelandic Song – New Year’s Concerts 17:00 @ Harpa Admission: 3900 kr.

DECEMBER 31ST

Pearls of Icelandic Song – New Year’s Concerts 17:00 @ Harpa Admission: 3900 kr.

Thursday

DECEMBER 29TH

JANUARY 1ST

Tuesday

Pearls of Icelandic Song – New Year’s Concerts 17:00 @ Harpa Admission: 3900 kr.

Festive Music for the New Year 17:00 @ Hallgrímskirkja Admission: 3500 kr.

Friday

Pearls of Icelandic Song – New Year’s Concerts 17:00 @ Harpa Admission: 3900 kr.

70 | Reykjavik Christmas Guide | www.christmasiniceland.is

STEFÁN BOGI GOLD- AND SILVERSMITH

METAL DESIGN SKÓLAVÖRÐUSTÍG 2 www.metaldesignReykjavík.is METALDESIGNReykjavík ...

TOP 10 DECEMBER ACTIVITIES

1

Gaze at the stars while soaking in one of the 16 thermal pools in the Reykjavík capital area.

2

Revel in a Reykjavík winter: be dazzled by the multi-coloured Christmas lights, skate on Tjörnin lake, the ice rink at Ingólfstorg or at the Skating Hall in Laugardalur.

6

Stop at one of Reykjavík’s many cafés for a warm drink or at any of the city’s great restaurants for a traditional Christmas Buffet.

7

Let the unique and surefooted Icelandic horse carry you through picturesque valleys and over rocky grey lava fields.

3

Make the most of the opportunity to shop tax-free. Icelandic design with a hefty discount, who can resist that?

8

4

9

5

10

Burn away the remnants of last year’s sins at a New Year’s Eve bonfire, or by setting off a bunch of fireworks at midnight.

Spoil yourself rotten in the ethereal environment at the Blue Lagoon. Be sure to check out their selection of spa treatments for a truly luxurious day.

Have a snowball fight underneath the unforgettable Northern Lights.

Take a tour through the majestic Icelandic landscape and see some of the many natural wonders Iceland has to offer, waterfalls, erupting hot springs, glaciers and so much more.

Experience Iceland’s history, art and culture, from the days of the Vikings to modern times.

72 | Reykjavik Christmas Guide | www.christmasiniceland.is

ed ent ffet d m r Fe te bu ec. 23r Ska 14:30 d RLY! 30 K EA 11: O BO

- The chrIsTmas GrIll

parTy

-

The whole table enjoys an amazing tasting menu.

Four Course

- TasTe

of IcelandIc

chrIsTmas -

This festive dinner menu gets you in the holiday spirit.

Three Course

- Christman Lunch A lunch menu you will not forget.

Opening hors oer te holidays 23. des

| Fermented skate from 11:30 -14:30

24-25.des 26. des 31.des 1. jan 2. jan

| Closed | 17:00-22:30 | 17:00 (reservations till 21:00) | 17:00-22:30 | 11:00-15:00 & 17:00-23:30

& 17:00-22:30 (alacart)

SJÁVARGRILLIÐ - SKÓLAVÖRÐUSTÍG 14 - 571 1100

SJAVARGRILLID.IS

WE’LL TAKE YOU THERE! ALL THE MOST EXCITING PLACES IN ICELAND

Northern Lights Tours

A SIGHT NOT TO BE MISSED! BOOK NOW

on www.re.is

at your reception

Free WiFi

Experience a great day with us!

Tours available on our website www.re.is and in our brochures!

Happy Holidays

R O

BSÍ Bus Terminal • 101 Reykjavík •

+354 580 5400 • main@re.is • www.re.is

– Visit our stores: Skólavörðustígur 7 & 16, 101 Reykjavík, Akureyri and Geysir, Haukadal. geysir.com –