Marking the final day of Yuletide festivities
In Iceland, the end of the yuletide season arrives on the sixth of January, a day known locally as Þrettándinn. This date, commonly recognized in the English-speaking world as the Twelfth Night, brings about bonfires and the boom of fireworks. Yesterday, the city of Reykjavík joined in the festivities, with a significant gathering at Ægissíða.
Sveinn Bjarki, a teacher, led a singing group that marched from Melaskóli elementary school towards the bonfire at Ægissíða. Accompanied by the police, the group was met by the Icelandic Yule lads at the fire. The torches were then thrown onto the stake, signifying the end of the Twelfth Night celebrations in that area.
Though the weather was chilly last night, Sveinn noted that the crowd was quite sizeable. Not only locals but also a good number of tourists participated in the event. People enjoyed the moment,with many relishing waffles while bidding farewell to Christmas.
The Twelfth Night bonfire in Reykjavík was just one of many such events spread across the country. In Gufunes, a performer named Friðrik Dór Jónsson entertained the guests. Other cities such as Akranes, Mosfellsbær, and Djúpivogur also hosted bonfires in the spirit of the Twelfth Night.
In Iceland, mid-winter is dominated by the cultural event of Þorrablót, featuring traditional foods and gatherings. New Year's Eve celebrations in Iceland involve bonfires, fireworks, and comedy shows, yet it remains unclear if there are distinct customs associated with the Twelfth Night. For more accurate information on potential Icelandic customs for this period, local Icelandic cultural organizations or specific event listings might provide more insights. Friðrik Þór Jónsson's role in the Twelfth Night events, however, remains undetermined from the available resources.
(Note: Gufunes in Reykjavík is primarily known for its museum and event spaces, but no Twelfth Night events specific to the location were cited in the provided sources.)
- Sveinn Bjarki stated that, despite the chilly weather, a large number of tourists and locals attended the Twelfth Night bonfire event at Ægissíða in Reykjavík.
- A performer named Friðrik Dór Jónsson entertained guests during the Twelfth Night celebrations in Gufunes, which is known for its museum and event spaces.
- In addition to Reykjavík, other cities like Akranes, Mosfellsbær, and Djúpivogur also hosted Twelfth Night bonfires.
- The Twelfth Night bonfire festivities, which typically include fireworks, are just one of many cultural events that take place in Iceland during winter, with mid-winter dominated by the cultural event of Þorrablót.
