Commemorating the Final Day of Christmas Celebrations
Twelfth Night Fun in Iceland: Fire, Singing, and Els
January 6th is a special day in Iceland, known as the Þrettándinn or the Twelfth Night in English-speaking parts of the world. This day is typically celebrated with bonfires, fireworks, and singing, and yesterday was no exception.
In the western part of Reykjavik, a large crowd gathered at the Ægissíða bonfire to bid farewell to Christmas. Sveinn Bjarki, a teacher who led a singing group there, commented on the bonfire's impressive size.
The festivities kicked off at Melaskóli elementary school at 6 PM, where Sveinn led a massive choir that marched with torches towards Ægissíða, accompanied by the police. Upon reaching the bonfire site, the Icelandic Yule lads greeted the group, and the torches were tossed onto the stake [1].
A Chilly yet Enjoyable Night
According to Sveinn, the number of participants initially seemed small, but a last-minute rush secured a respectable turnout. Moreover, a sizeable group of tourists joined the locals in the area for this festivity [1].
Revellers enjoyed the moment, many indulging in waffles while celebrating the last day of Christmas. A calm yet cold breeze swept over the crowd [1].
The bonfire in the western part of town was organised by the parents' association of the local elementary schools. Guests could delight in freshly-baked waffles and a fireworks display, courtesy of the local sports club, KR [1].
A Musical Twelfth Night in Gufunes
Another bonfire took place in Gufunes, where the singer Friðrik Dór Jónsson serenaded guests [1].
Across the country, bonfires were lit in Akranes, Mosfellsbær, and Djúpivogur, to name a few [1].
The Twelfth Night celebrations in Iceland are deeply rooted in its rich folklore. These festivities often involve storytelling, music, and possibly fireworks, although they are more commonly associated with New Year's Eve [2]. Additionally, a significant tradition is the lighting of elf bonfires (Álfabrennur), which serve to ward off hidden people or elves that are thought to invade farmhouses during Christmas [2].
Overall, Twelfth Night in Iceland is an opportunity to immerse oneself in local culture and enjoy the festive atmosphere that marks the end of the Christmas season.
- Weather was not a major concern for the tourists and locals as they braved the cold breeze during the Twelfth Night celebrations.
- Outdoor-living was at its peak as revellers gathered around the bonfires, enjoying fireworks, singing, and freshly-baked waffles.
- The Twelfth Night festivities in Gufunes were especially memorable, with the singer Friðrik Dór Jónsson adding a melodious touch to the celebrations.
- Home-and-garden might seem unrelated, but the lighting of elf bonfires (Álfabrennur) during the Twelfth Night can be seen as a way to ensure a pleasant lifestyle in the upcoming year by keeping elves at bay.
