Iceland Festive Holidays

Imagine it's Christmas Eve, and people up and down the UK are holding their breath that maybe, just maybe, this year might be the magical ‘White Christmas' they've been waiting for all these years.

But if you can't wait any longer for that ‘unique' Christmas or New Year then look no further than the middle of the North Atlantic and head for Iceland and a memorable Christmas holiday. Whilst the island might be better known as a summer destination, there is plenty to explore in the winter months too, and Iceland really comes alive for the festive celebrations.

Iceland's Christmas celebrations are centred around the remarkable ‘Yuletide Lads.' In the 13 days before Christmas, these mythical little fellows, set on making mischief, are said to come down from the hills and into towns and cities. In recent years, they seem to have mellowed - many children leave shoes in the window to find that one of the ‘lads' has left a present. Be careful though - they're not named ‘Sausage Stealer' and ‘Door Slammer' for nothing…

Reykjavik, the capital, comes alive for Christmas with lights festooned everywhere and a genuinely warm glow about the city. For special Christmas meals, abandon the traditional turkey and tuck into some of Iceland's famous seafood, freshly caught from the Atlantic and cooked to perfection. The city also plays host to a variety of choirs, and something musical appears round every corner. And not surprisingly the already famous nightlife kicks up a gear for the festive period. On the big day why not chill out - and warm up - in the rich mineral waters of the Blue Lagoon? It might not be a white Christmas, but it'll certainly be unforgettable.

When it comes to ringing in the New Year, Icelanders really know how to party. On New Year's Eve, enjoy a feast of Icelandic cuisine followed by a chance to view the city's fantastic fireworks - and if you are really lucky, you might get the opportunity to see nature's own light show, the northern lights. Once the clock strikes 12 it's time to get to Reykjavik's bars and clubs, never bigger nor better than on this special evening.

Some travel companies offer special tours to Iceland at this time of year, and with a host of excursions suitable for festive families or New Year night clubbers alike, these are well worth checking out.

Explore some festive breaks to Iceland with Discover the World, the leading specialist tour operator to Iceland.