Reykjavik New Year’s Eve Bonfires 2025

🔥 New Year’s Eve Bonfires in Reykjavík (Áramótabrennur)

If you want to celebrate New Year’s Eve like locals do, head to an Áramótabrenna, a neighborhood bonfire lit outdoors on the evening of December 31st. Reykjavík sets up bonfires around the city, and people gather in the winter dark to watch the flames, chat with neighbors, and often sing a few familiar songs. It’s simple, cozy, and wonderfully Icelandic.

Book a bonfire tour

Book your bonfire tour here: Bonfire Tour (New Year’s Eve)

What to expect

• Community vibe: No big stage or formal program, just locals showing up in warm clothes and good spirits.
• Timing: Most Reykjavík bonfires are lit around 20:30 (8:30pm).
• Family-friendly: Expect kids, prams, and lots of hot-chocolate energy.
• Short and sweet: Bonfires aren’t all-night festivals, so arrive on time.

Reykjavík bonfire locations and times

Bonfires are typically held in ten locations across Reykjavík. Choose the one closest to where you’re staying, or pick a “big bonfire” spot for extra atmosphere.

• Ægisíða (small) – 20:30
• Skerjafjörður, opposite Skildinganes 48–52 (small) – 21:00
• Suðurhlíðar, below Fossvogur Cemetery (small) – 20:30
• Laugardalur, below Laugarásvegur 18 (small) – 20:30
• Geirsnef, north side (large) – 20:30
• Stekkjarbakki (small) – 20:30
• Rauðavatn, north side (small) – 20:30
• Gufunes, by Gufunesbær (large) – 20:30
• Kléberg, Kjalarnes (small) – 20:30
• Úlfarsfell, at Fisfélagið’s lot above Lambhagavegur (small) – 20:30

Which one should visitors pick?

• For a bigger blaze: Geirsnef and Gufunes are listed as large bonfires.
• Easy city access: Laugardalur and Ægisíða are convenient for many Reykjavík stays.
• Quieter neighborhood feel: Stekkjarbakki, Rauðavatn, and Suðurhlíðar tend to feel more local and low-key.

Practical tips (warmth, safety, and getting there)

• Arrive early: Aim for 10–20 minutes before lighting time.
• Dress like an onion: Windproof outer layer, hat, gloves, and good boots. Ice can be sneaky.
• Leave fireworks at home: Fireworks and flares are not allowed at Reykjavík bonfires. Sparklers are generally allowed, and protective goggles and gloves are recommended.
• No drones: Drones are not permitted over the bonfire areas.
• Walk when you can: The city recommends coming on foot where possible, and access for cars may be limited. Some streets may be temporarily closed and parking can be restricted near certain sites.

Bonfires in nearby towns (capital area)

If you’re staying outside central Reykjavík, a local bonfire might be even closer. These can also be a great choice if you want an earlier start or a different atmosphere.

• Mosfellsbær: Bonfire by Leirvogur (below Holtahverfi) at 16:30. Fireworks use at the site is banned.
• Seltjarnarnes: Bonfire at Valhúsahæð at 20:30. Often weather-dependent (wind limits may apply). There is no fireworks show at the bonfire, and visitors are reminded not to set off fireworks near it. Seltjarnarneskirkja typically offers hot chocolate and music nearby in the evening.
• Garðabær: Two bonfires are commonly listed: Sjávargrund at 21:00 and Álftanes (north of Gesthús, access from Bakkavegur) at 20:30.
• Kópavogur: Recent official updates note no bonfire in Kópavogsdalur (site no longer considered suitable). Kópavogur has also organized a rescue-team fireworks show at 21:00 in the Glaðheimar area (east of Reykjanesbraut), visible from several neighborhoods.

Book a bonfire tour

Book your bonfire tour here: Bonfire Tour (New Year’s Eve)

Use the map to find your nearest bonfire in Reykjavík 2025