Playing dress-up
All that was said in our recommendations for November still goes: It’s getting cold out there folks so make sure you dress accordingly. There’s even been a bit of snow recently so if you get caught in a snowball fight or want to build a snowman you better bring some good gloves. Another great stocking stuffer is a pair of Icelandic wool socks that will keep your feet warm and toasty while watching the northern lights.
Since we are now in the holiday season, it might be helpful to know that Icelanders tend to dress up a bit more than many neighboring nations. If you are headed to a Christmas party, a cocktail dress or a nice shirt is the custom but don’t fret if you aren’t comfortable with dressing up. As long as you dress a step above pajamas or athletic attire, Icelanders won’t mind your outfit.
Oh, and by the way, legend has it that children who don’t get new clothes on Christmas eve will be eaten by the Christmas Cat. Don’t say we didn’t warn you. If you want to know more about Icelandic Christmas traditions we have a special blog post about the Icelandic Yule Lads.
Food glorious food
At Hotel Rangá, Christmas equals eating. Our Scandinavian Christmas buffet runs Fridays and Saturdays in December and is an event no foodie can miss. We start off with mulled wine and from there you can feast on Icelandic Christmas delicacies such as the smoked leg of lamb, leaf bread (a traditional deep-fried patterned wafer), or Christmas herring, a Scandi tidbit. If you are interested in knowing more about our Christmas buffet we recommend this blog post: A Festive Feast.
Burn baby burn
If you are joining us over the new year, talk to reception about events on New Year’s eve. Icelanders tend to go a bit crazy with the fireworks and there might be a good place around for a display but you could also attend the bonfire at neighboring village Hvolsvöllur, where children run around with sparklers and people sing as they bid the old year farewell and greet 2019 with a cheer.
Rangá Recommends in December
- What to do in Iceland in December?
