Mark Christmas's end with bonfires in Reykavík

In Iceland, January 6 marks the official end of the Christmas season. This day is known as Þrettándinn, literally meaning “the thirteenth.” While it corresponds to Twelfth Night in English tradition, it is called the thirteenth in Iceland because we begin celebrating a day earlier than the Anglo-Saxons. Families bid Christmas farewell with bonfires, fireworks, and the appearance of all kinds of strange and magical creatures.

According to Icelandic folklore, this is one of the rare days when the elves and hidden folk make themselves visible to humans. The Elf King and Queen often visit the bonfires, where people of all ages gather to sing, dance, and say goodbye to the Yule season in the glow of community warmth. 

This is the day when Christmas trees are usually taken down and the last Yule Lad, Kertasníkir the Candle-Stealer, begins his journey back to the mountains to join his twelve brothers, mother Grýla, her husband Leppalúði, and the Yule Cat.

elf_bonfires_2013._image_by_roman_gerasymenko.jpg

FAQs

Why are bonfires held in Reykjavík on January 6?

Bonfires are part of Icelandic winter holiday traditions. They are community gatherings held on Þrettándinn, the thirteenth day of Christmas, which falls on January 6th, to mark the official end of the Christmas season.

What is Þrettándinn and how is it connected to January 6?

Þrettándinn (literally “the thirteenth”) is Iceland’s celebration on January 6 marking the end of the Christmas period. People gather for bonfires, fireworks, and communal festivities such as singing.

Are the bonfires the same on New Year's Eve and 6 January?

Not exactly: New Year’s Eve bonfires are larger with multiple official locations around Reykjavík for locals and visitors. Þrettándinn bonfires tend to be fewer and focus more on marking the close of Christmas and folk traditions

What time do the end of Christmas bonfires start and finish?

Þrettándinn bonfires often begin around 6:00 pm with a smaller firework show later in the evening.

Do bonfires have any cultural or mythical significance?

Historically, the bonfires symbolised driving out the old year and winter’s darkness, and folklore connects them with elves, hidden people, and the departure of the Yule Lads on Þrettándinn.

Can visitors attend these events?

Absolutely. Bonfires are public community events and everyone is welcome. These events are especially fun for the children. 

Are there safety rules or restrictions?

Fireworks and flares are usually prohibited right at the bonfire sites for safety, though sparklers are often allowed. Weather conditions, such as strong winds, can cancel bonfires.