Tips

Christmas is just around the corner, and it’s time to embrace the magical atmosphere that comes with it. Whether it’s the cozy glow of festive lights, the warmth of shared meals, or the joy of giving and receiving gifts, this season holds a special place in our hearts. Paired with an Iceland Christmas Camper Experience, it offers a unique way to celebrate in the heart of Iceland’s breathtaking nature.

The Festive Spirit is Here

In Iceland, the holiday season brings unique traditions, from the mischievous antics of the 13 Yule Lads to enchanting natural phenomena like the northern lights. To dive deeper into these Icelandic Christmas wonders, check out our Christmas Guide.

A snowy Christmas tree branch adorned with the Icelandic flag and festive decorations, capturing the essence of an Icelandic winter holiday.

Icelandic Christmas Traditions

In Iceland, Christmas festivities kick off with the Advent season, leading up to the main celebrations on December 24th. Unlike other countries, Icelanders follow a mix of old Norse customs and modern influences, creating a distinctive holiday atmosphere. The arrival of the 13 Yule Lads, one each night starting on December 12th, adds a playful twist to the season, as children leave shoes by the window to receive treats (or a potato, if they’ve been less than nice).

As families gather on Christmas Eve, they enjoy a warm and joyous evening filled with traditional dishes, laughter, and the exchange of gifts. Let’s explore some of the mouthwatering culinary highlights of an Icelandic Christmas.

Traditional Icelandic Christmas Dishes

Food plays a central role in Icelandic Christmas celebrations, with dishes that carry a rich cultural heritage. Here are some iconic delicacies:

Slices of traditional Icelandic smoked lamb (Hangikjöt) served on a festive red plate, garnished with parsley.
  • Hangikjöt
    Smoked lamb is a must-have during the holiday season. Often served with boiled potatoes, peas, and creamy béchamel sauce, its smoky flavor is a true hallmark of Icelandic cuisine. While traditionally oven-baked, pre-cooked versions can sometimes be found in stores.
  • Laufabrauð
    Known as “leaf bread,” these thin, crispy flatbreads are beautifully decorated with intricate patterns. Families often gather to make them together, turning the process into a festive tradition. Store-bought laufabrauð can be lightly toasted on a stove or grill, making it perfect for camper celebrations.
  • Skata
    Fermented skate is served on December 23rd, known as Thorlák’s Mass. While its strong aroma might not be for everyone, it remains a cherished tradition for many Icelanders.
  • Sarah Bernhardt Cookies
    These luxurious almond-based cookies topped with chocolate ganache are a favorite sweet treat during the holidays.

Celebrating Christmas in a Camper

Imagine celebrating Christmas amidst Iceland’s stunning winter landscapes, with snow-covered mountains and dancing northern lights as your backdrop. With CampEasy’s fully equipped campers, an Iceland Christmas Camper Experience becomes the perfect way to combine festive spirit with Icelandic nature. Here’s how:

  • Cooking in the Camper:
    Our campers come with gas stoves, pots, pans, and all the utensils you need to whip up a hearty Christmas meal. Additionally, you can rent a BBQ grill, perfect for preparing traditional Icelandic dishes like smoked lamb.
  • Decorating Your Space:
    Add a touch of holiday cheer with string lights powered by our 230V sockets, a small portable Christmas tree, or other compact decorations. The round cabin table in our campers provides the perfect setting for a festive meal.
  • Creating a Cozy Atmosphere:
    Enjoy the warmth of our Webasto heating system while you relax with loved ones. In our Easy Luxury 4×4 or Easy Monster 4×4 models, you can even play a virtual fireplace on the TV for an added touch of Christmas magic.
  • An Unforgettable Setting:
    Picture this: sharing a Christmas dinner under the northern lights or in the serene stillness of Iceland’s winter wonderland. With a CampEasy camper, you’re not just celebrating Christmas—you’re creating lifelong memories.
A woman in a red jacket enjoying snowfall in front of a camper van, set against a picturesque Icelandic winter landscape.

Make This Christmas Extraordinary

Whether you’re savoring Icelandic delicacies, exploring the island’s breathtaking landscapes, or enjoying the cozy comforts of a camper van, Christmas in Iceland promises to be truly magical.

It’s not too late to book your holiday adventure with CampEasy! Book your camper now and make this season unforgettable. Already have plans? Start planning early and secure your spot for Christmas 2025.