Thirteenth Day of Christmas Bonfire Night (Gufunes, Reykjavík)Þrettándinn í Reykjavík — Gufunes
Reykjavik, Icelandic, Iceland
Save this celebration to keep it in your plan.
🎟 Free entry
FestivalAtlas
Þrettándinn (Epiphany, January 6) marks the official end of Christmas in Iceland with community bonfires and folklore. Island-wide bonfires are lit, elves and trolls appear in costumes, and fireworks celebrate the return of light in midwinter. Icelanders toss their Christmas trees onto the fires and bid farewell to the Yule Lads (the last of the Yule Lads return to the mountains). It is a unique night of lights and folklore, offering visitors a vivid cultural experience of Icelandic winter tradition.
This festival combines the Christian feast of Epiphany with Icelandic folklore (elves, Yule Lads, trolls). Bonfires and fireworks symbolize driving out the darkness of winter. It reflects historic Norse winter solstice customs repurposed as a Christian holiday, showing how Iceland blends its pagan heritage with religious festivities.
Venues and routes
Gufunesbær · Reykjavik
The dates that shape the visit.
Opening day · Wed, Jan 6
Event begins at sunset; arrival of Yule Lads marks the lighting of the bonfire
Arrive early near the bonfire; it is smoky, so stand upwind and keep a safe distance. Very atmospheric moment with folklore characters.
Enjoy Icelandic music in a community setting; stand close (but not too close to fire) for best experience.
Weather dependent; may be canceled if winds are strong.
Stay until the fireworks. Secure a clear view of the sky and exit the bonfire area promptly after fireworks conclude.
Reference notes for once this becomes a real plan.
Practical notes refreshed Jan 18.
Typical price: ISK0
High crowds · Lively energy
Large local crowd near the bonfire and performance area; more space around outskirts.
Reykjavík is a very safe city; standard precautions apply. Fire safety regulations are enforced at the bonfire.
Cold and windy conditions likely · Event generally proceeds in light rain
Daily budget: ISK 7000-12000, Mid-range: ISK 15000-25000, Comfort: ISK 30000+ · Drinks: Water free, soft drinks ~ISK 300, beer ~ISK 1000
Bring your own reusable water bottle and light snacks; use public buses; share rides when possible.
From center: Approximately 15 min drive or 20 min by bus to Gufunesbær in Grafarvogur · The main event area and walking paths are generally accessible
Help refresh this festival
Current coverage is usable, but a fresher on-ground clip is needed.